Chronic Abdominal Pain - Liver-Qi Stagnation Pattern
TCM differentiation and treatment for chronic abdominal
Chronic Abdominal Pain · Liver-Qi Stagnation Pattern
Updated: June 23, 2026
Reviewed by: Dr. Li Wei, DACM
Reading Time: 7 min
Body Area: Abdomen
Pattern Overview
Liver-Qi Stagnation is a common pattern in chronic abdominal pain,
characterized by **stress-related visceral hypersensitivity, abdominal
pain, distension, frequent sighing, and aggravation with stress**. The
core pathogenesis is emotional stress causing Liver-Qi stagnation,
leading to autonomic dysfunction, altered gut motility, and visceral
hypersensitivity.
Key Symptoms and Differentiation Points
| Differentiation Dimension | Manifestations |
|---|
| Primary Symptoms |
|---|
stress |
| Associated Symptoms |
|---|
premenstrual tension |
| Tongue and Pulse |
|---|
pulse |
| Pathogenesis |
|---|
and visceral hypersensitivity |
| Etiology |
|---|
|
Acupuncture Point Prescription
| Point | Location | Function |
|---|
| Qimen (LR14) |
|---|
the nipple | Front-Mu point of Liver meridian; regulates Liver-Qi |
| Taichong (LR3) |
|---|
metatarsals | Source point of Liver meridian; soothes Liver-Qi |
| Neiguan (PC6) |
|---|
| Relieves chest tightness and calms the spirit |
| Zusanli (ST36) |
|---|
to the tibial crest | Strengthens Spleen and Stomach; regulates Qi |
Clinical Recommendation: Filament needle, reducing method; combine
with stress reduction techniques and counseling.
Herbal Formula
Base Formula: Chai Hu Shu Gan San (柴胡疏肝散)
Composition:
Bupleurum (Chai Hu), White Peony (Bai Shao), Immature Bitter Orange (Zhi
Ke), Cyperus (Xiang Fu), Chuanxiong (Chuan Xiong), Tangerine Peel (Chen
Pi), Licorice (Gan Cao)
Action: Soothes Liver-Qi, regulates Qi flow, and relieves abdominal
pain.
Modifications
| Associated Symptoms | Additions/Subtractions |
|---|
| Severe pain |
|---|
pain |
| Distension |
|---|
distension |
| Irritability | Add Zhi Zi, Dan Pi to clear Liver Heat |
|---|
| Insomnia | Add Suan Zao Ren, Yuan Zhi to calm the spirit |
|---|
Western Mechanism Reference
Stress-related visceral hypersensitivity with autonomic dysfunction,
altered gut motility, and pain sensitization. Liver-Qi Stagnation
corresponds to chronic abdominal pain with stress-related exacerbation,
where autonomic dysfunction and visceral hypersensitivity contribute to
pain and distension.
References
1. Internal Medicine of TCM - Abdominal Pain with Liver-Qi Stagnation.
2. Zang-Fu Pattern Differentiation: Liver-Qi Stagnation → Pivot Layer.
3. WHO. (2023). Digestive health. World Health Organization.
Explore More
- Find your solution at MendGod.com –
Personalized herbal protocols and acupressure tools for digestive
health.
- Deepen your knowledge at TcmCIO.com – Full
research papers and clinical case studies on TCM digestive health.
Related TCM Patterns for Chronic Abdominal Pain
Last reviewed: June 2026 | Lead author: Dr. Li Wei, DACM | Content updated: Monthly
Disclaimer: This guide is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Consult a licensed healthcare provider before starting any treatment.