Fibromyalgia - Liver Qi Stagnation Pattern

TCM differentiation and treatment for fibromyalgia with

Fibromyalgia · Liver Qi Stagnation Pattern

Updated: June 23, 2026

Reviewed by: Dr. Li Wei, DACM

Reading Time: 7 min

Body Area: Whole Body

Pattern Overview

Liver Qi Stagnation is a common pattern in fibromyalgia, characterized

by **central sensitization with depression, widespread pain related to

stress, chest tightness, and frequent sighing**. The core pathogenesis

is **chronic stress and emotional distress causing Liver Qi

stagnation**, leading to generalized pain, mood disturbance, and

autonomic dysfunction.

Key Symptoms and Differentiation Points

Differentiation Dimension Manifestations
Primary Symptoms

tightness, frequent sighing |

Associated Symptoms

premenstrual tension |

Tongue and Pulse

pulse |

Pathogenesis

pain throughout the body |

Etiology

activity |

Acupuncture Point Prescription

Point Location Function
LR3 Taichong

metatarsals | Source point of Liver meridian; soothes Liver Qi |

GB34 Yanglingquan Depression below the head of the fibula

He-Sea point of Gallbladder meridian; regulates Qi and relieves pain |

BL18 Ganshu Lower back, 1.5 cun lateral to T9

of Liver meridian; regulates Liver Qi |

DU20 Baihui

anterior hairline | Lifts Qi and calms the spirit |

Clinical Recommendation: Filiform needle, reducing method; combine

with breathing exercises and stress reduction techniques.

Herbal Formula

Base Formula: Xiao Yao San (逍遥散)

Composition:

Bupleurum (Chai Hu), White Peony (Bai Shao), Angelica (Dang Gui),

Atractylodes (Bai Zhu), Poria (Fu Ling), Licorice (Gan Cao), Mint (Bo

He)

Action: Soothes Liver Qi, nourishes Blood, strengthens the Spleen,

and relieves depression.

Modifications

Associated Symptoms Additions/Subtractions
Severe depression Add Yu Jin, He Huan Pi to relieve depression
Insomnia Add Suan Zao Ren, Yuan Zhi to calm the spirit
Chest tightness Add Zhi Ke, Xiang Fu to regulate Qi

Western Mechanism Reference

Central sensitization with depression, HPA axis dysregulation, and

altered pain processing. Liver Qi Stagnation corresponds to fibromyalgia

with prominent affective symptoms, where chronic stress and mood

disturbance contribute to pain amplification.

References

1. Database + Textbook.

2. WHO. (2023). Fibromyalgia fact sheet. World Health Organization.

Explore More

Personalized herbal protocols and acupressure tools for widespread pain

relief.

research papers and clinical case studies on TCM chronic pain

management.

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.