Hip Pain - Qi Stagnation with Blood Stasis Pattern

TCM differentiation and treatment for hip pain with Qi

Hip Pain · Qi Stagnation with Blood Stasis Pattern

Updated: June 23, 2026

Reviewed by: Dr. Li Wei, DACM

Reading Time: 6 min

Body Area: Hip


Pattern Overview

Qi Stagnation with Blood Stasis is a common pattern in hip pain,

characterized by **traumatic bursitis, sharp fixed pain, and aggravation

at night. The core pathogenesis is trauma causing Qi stagnation and

Blood stasis in the hip collaterals**, leading to bursal inflammation,

swelling, and pain.


Key Symptoms and Differentiation Points

Differentiation Dimension Manifestations
Primary Symptoms

location, worse at night |

Associated Symptoms

limping |

Tongue and Pulse

coating, hesitant pulse |

Pathogenesis

the hip collaterals |

Etiology Hip injury, fall, sports trauma, overuse

Acupuncture Point Prescription

Point Location Function
GB30 Huantiao

trochanter of femur | Master point for hip pain; on the Gallbladder

meridian |

BL54 Zhibian 3 cun lateral to the sacral hiatus

lower back pain |

LR3 Taichong

metatarsals | Soothes Liver Qi and regulates Qi flow |

Ashi points Tender spots around the hip

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: Fu Yuan Huo Xue Tang (复元活血汤)

Composition:

Bupleurum (Chai Hu), Angelica (Dang Gui), Peach Kernel (Tao Ren),

Safflower (Hong Hua), Pangolin Scales (Chuan Shan Jia), Trichosanthes

Root (Tian Hua Fen), Rhubarb (Da Huang), Licorice (Gan Cao)

Action: Invigorates blood, resolves stasis, promotes Qi flow, and

reduces swelling.

Modifications

Associated Symptoms Additions/Subtractions
Severe pain Add Ru Xiang, Mo Yao to relieve pain
Swelling Add Dan Shen, Chi Shao to improve microcirculation
Weakness Add Huang Qi, Dang Shen to supplement Qi

Western Mechanism Reference

Traumatic bursitis with local hematoma, microcirculatory disturbance,

and inflammatory response. Qi Stagnation with Blood Stasis corresponds

to traumatic hip bursitis, where soft tissue injury and localized

bleeding cause inflammation and pain.


References

1. Textbook Standard.

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


Explore More

Personalized herbal protocols and acupressure tools for hip pain relief.

research papers and clinical case studies on TCM joint 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.