Golfer's Elbow - Qi Stagnation with Blood Stasis Pattern

TCM differentiation and treatment for golfer's elbow with

Golfer's Elbow · Qi Stagnation with Blood Stasis Pattern

Updated: June 23, 2026

Reviewed by: Dr. Li Wei, DACM

Reading Time: 6 min

Body Area: Arm

Pattern Overview

Qi Stagnation with Blood Stasis is a common pattern in golfer's elbow,

characterized by **overuse injury, sharp fixed pain, and aggravation at

night. The core pathogenesis is stagnation of Qi and Blood in the

elbow collaterals from repetitive overuse**, leading to tendon

microtearing, inflammation, and persistent pain.

Key Symptoms and Differentiation Points

Differentiation Dimension Manifestations
Primary Symptoms

location, worse at night |

Associated Symptoms

limited wrist flexion |

Tongue and Pulse

coating, hesitant pulse |

Pathogenesis

obstructing the elbow collaterals |

Etiology

increase in activity |

Acupuncture Point Prescription

Point Location Function
LI11 Quchi Lateral end of the elbow crease

Large Intestine meridian; regulates Qi and Blood |

LI10 Shousanli 2 cun below LI11, on the forearm

treats elbow pain |

Ashi points Tender spots on the medial elbow

invigoration and pain relief |

Clinical Recommendation: Filiform needle, reducing method; cupping

or pricking at Ashi points may be used to enhance blood stasis

resolution.

Herbal Formula

Base Formula: Tao Hong Si Wu Tang (桃红四物汤)

Composition:

Peach Kernel (Tao Ren), Safflower (Hong Hua), Angelica (Dang Gui),

Chuanxiong (Chuan Xiong), Red Peony (Chi Shao), Rehmannia (Sheng Di)

Action: Invigorates blood, resolves stasis, nourishes blood, and

relieves pain.

Modifications

Associated Symptoms Additions/Subtractions
Severe pain Add Ru Xiang, Mo Yao to relieve pain
Weak grip Add Huang Qi, Dang Shen to supplement Qi
Chronic condition

microcirculation |

Western Mechanism Reference

Overuse injury with microtearing, local inflammation, and

microcirculatory disturbance. Qi Stagnation with Blood Stasis

corresponds to golfer's elbow from repetitive overuse, where chronic

microtrauma and inflammation lead to tendon degeneration.

References

1. Textbook Standard.

2. WHO. (2023). Musculoskeletal pain. World Health Organization.

Explore More

Personalized herbal protocols and acupressure tools for elbow pain

relief.

research papers and clinical case studies on TCM tendon health.

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.