Patellar Tendinitis - Qi Stagnation with Blood Stasis Pattern

TCM differentiation and treatment for patellar tendinitis

Patellar Tendinitis · Qi Stagnation with Blood Stasis Pattern

Updated: June 23, 2026

Reviewed by: Dr. Li Wei, DACM

Reading Time: 6 min

Body Area: Knee

Pattern Overview

Qi Stagnation with Blood Stasis is the core pattern in patellar

tendinitis, characterized by **jumper's knee, sharp fixed pain, and

aggravation with jumping. The core pathogenesis is repeated jumping

or overuse causing Qi stagnation and Blood stasis in the patellar

tendon**, leading to tendon microtearing, inflammation, and persistent

pain.

Key Symptoms and Differentiation Points

Differentiation Dimension Manifestations
Primary Symptoms

worse with jumping |

Associated Symptoms

on palpation |

Tongue and Pulse

coating, hesitant pulse |

Pathogenesis

Blood stasis |

Etiology

training intensity |

Acupuncture Point Prescription

Point Location Function
ST35 Dubi In the two hollows beside the patella

that reduce knee pain and swelling |

BL40 Weizhong
He-Sea point of Bladder meridian; treats back and knee pain
Ashi points Tender spots around the patellar tendon

blood 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),

Niu Xi (Achyranthes)

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
Worse with jumping

unblock collaterals |

Qi deficiency

invigorate blood |

Western Mechanism Reference

Jumper's knee with repeated microtrauma, tendon degeneration, and local

microcirculatory disturbance. Qi Stagnation with Blood Stasis

corresponds to patellar tendinitis (jumper's knee), where repeated

microtrauma and impaired microcirculation contribute to tendon

degeneration and pain.

References

1. Textbook Standard.

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

Explore More

Personalized herbal protocols and acupressure tools for knee pain

relief.

research papers and clinical case studies on TCM sports 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.