Myofascial Pain Syndrome - Qi Stagnation with Blood Stasis

TCM differentiation and treatment for myofascial pain

Myofascial Pain Syndrome · Qi Stagnation with Blood Stasis Pattern

Updated: June 23, 2026

Reviewed by: Dr. Li Wei, DACM

Reading Time: 7 min

Body Area: Whole Body

Pattern Overview

Qi Stagnation with Blood Stasis is a common pattern in myofascial pain

syndrome, characterized by **chronic trigger points, sharp fixed pain,

and aggravation at night. The core pathogenesis is stagnation of Qi

and Blood in the muscle collaterals**, leading to chronic trigger

points, persistent pain, and impaired healing.

Key Symptoms and Differentiation Points

Differentiation Dimension Manifestations
Primary Symptoms

points, worse at night |

Associated Symptoms

irritability, dizziness |

Tongue and Pulse

coating, wiry-hesitant pulse |

Pathogenesis

muscle collaterals |

Etiology Chronic poor posture, stress, prolonged inactivity

Acupuncture Point Prescription

Point Location Function
BL17 Geshu Lower back, 1.5 cun lateral to T7

the Blood; invigorates Blood and resolves stasis |

LR3 Taichong

metatarsals | Soothes Liver Qi and regulates Qi flow |

Ashi points Tender trigger points throughout the body

blood invigoration and pain relief |

Clinical Recommendation: Filiform needle, reducing method; cupping

at Ashi points may be used to enhance blood stasis resolution.

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), Licorice (Gan Cao),

Yan Hu Suo

Action: Soothes Liver Qi, regulates Qi flow, invigorates blood,

resolves stasis, and relieves pain.

Modifications

Associated Symptoms Additions/Subtractions
Severe pain Add Ru Xiang, Mo Yao to relieve pain
Chest tightness

depression |

Dizziness Add Bai Zhi, Man Jing Zi to disperse Wind and stop pain
Insomnia Add Suan Zao Ren, Yuan Zhi to calm the spirit

Western Mechanism Reference

Chronic trigger points with sustained muscle tension, local

microcirculatory disturbance, and metabolic accumulation. Qi Stagnation

with Blood Stasis corresponds to chronic myofascial pain syndrome, where

sustained muscle tension and impaired microcirculation lead to trigger

point formation and metabolic waste accumulation.

References

1. Textbook Standard.

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

Explore More

Personalized herbal protocols and acupressure tools for muscle pain

relief.

research papers and clinical case studies on TCM myofascial 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.