Peripheral Neuropathy - Qi-Blood Deficiency Pattern
TCM differentiation and treatment for peripheral
Peripheral Neuropathy · Qi-Blood Deficiency Pattern
Updated: June 23, 2026
Reviewed by: Dr. Li Wei, DACM
Reading Time: 7 min
Body Area: Whole Body
Pattern Overview
Qi-Blood Deficiency is a common pattern in peripheral neuropathy,
characterized by **diabetic neuropathy, numbness, tingling, weakness,
and poor recovery. The core pathogenesis is insufficient Qi and
Blood to nourish the peripheral nerves**, leading to nerve degeneration,
impaired sensation, and weakness.
Key Symptoms and Differentiation Points
| Differentiation Dimension | Manifestations |
|---|
| Primary Symptoms |
|---|
weakness, poor recovery |
| Associated Symptoms |
|---|
breath, dizziness |
| Tongue and Pulse |
|---|
and weak pulse |
| Pathogenesis |
|---|
peripheral nerves |
| Etiology |
|---|
nerve compression |
Acupuncture Point Prescription
| Point | Location | Function |
|---|
| ST36 Zusanli |
|---|
the tibial crest | Strengthens Spleen and Stomach; tonifies Qi and Blood
|
| SP6 Sanyinjiao | 3 cun above the medial malleolus |
|---|
Blood and Yin; regulates the Spleen and Kidney |
| LI11 Quchi | Lateral end of the elbow crease |
|---|
Large Intestine meridian; regulates Qi and Blood in the upper limb |
| BL20 Pishu | Lower back, 1.5 cun lateral to T11 |
|---|
of Spleen meridian; strengthens Spleen Qi |
Clinical Recommendation: Filiform needle, reinforcing method;
moxibustion may be applied to Zusanli and Pishu to warm and tonify Qi
and Blood.
Herbal Formula
Base Formula: Ba Zhen Tang (八珍汤)
Composition:
Ginseng (Ren Shen), Atractylodes (Bai Zhu), Poria (Fu Ling), Licorice
(Gan Cao), Angelica (Dang Gui), Chuanxiong (Chuan Xiong), White Peony
(Bai Shao), Rehmannia (Shu Di)
Action: Supplements Qi and Blood, strengthens the Spleen and
Stomach.
Modifications
| Associated Symptoms | Additions/Subtractions |
|---|
| Severe numbness | Add Ji Xue Teng, Dan Shen to improve circulation |
|---|
| Poor sleep | Add Suan Zao Ren, Yuan Zhi to calm the spirit |
|---|
| Cold limbs | Add Gui Zhi, Sheng Jiang to warm the meridians |
|---|
Western Mechanism Reference
Diabetic neuropathy with impaired nerve perfusion, reduced nerve
regeneration capacity, and axonal degeneration. Qi-Blood Deficiency
corresponds to diabetic peripheral neuropathy, where impaired blood flow
and reduced nutrient supply to the nerves contribute to axonal
degeneration and sensory loss.
References
1. Database + Textbook.
2. Abbas, H., et al. (2010). Acupuncture for peripheral neuropathy.
Journal of Peripheral Nervous System, 15(3), 215-222.
3. WHO. (2023). Peripheral neuropathy fact sheet. World Health
Organization.
Explore More
- Find your solution at MendGod.com –
Personalized herbal protocols and acupressure tools for nerve pain
relief.
- Deepen your knowledge at TcmCIO.com – Full
research papers and clinical case studies on TCM nerve health.
Related TCM Patterns for Peripheral Neuropathy
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.