Post-Herpetic Neuralgia - Qi Stagnation with Blood Stasis
TCM differentiation and treatment for post-herpetic
Post-Herpetic Neuralgia · 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 post-herpetic
neuralgia (PHN), characterized by **post-viral nerve damage, sharp fixed
pain, and aggravation at night. The core pathogenesis is stagnation
of Qi and Blood in the affected nerve collaterals following herpes
zoster infection**, leading to persistent pain, numbness, and impaired
nerve repair.
Key Symptoms and Differentiation Points
| Differentiation Dimension | Manifestations |
|---|
| Primary Symptoms |
|---|
fixed location, worse at night |
| Associated Symptoms |
|---|
complexion, purple-dark lips |
| Tongue and Pulse |
|---|
coating, hesitant pulse |
| Pathogenesis |
|---|
nerve collaterals |
| Etiology |
|---|
prolonged nerve damage |
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 spots in the affected dermatome |
|---|
invigoration and pain relief |
Clinical Recommendation: Filiform needle, reducing method; cupping
at Ashi points may be used to enhance blood stasis resolution.
Electro-acupuncture may be added to modulate nerve pain.
Herbal Formula
Base Formula: Xue Fu Zhu Yu Tang (血府逐瘀汤)
Composition:
Peach Kernel (Tao Ren), Safflower (Hong Hua), Angelica (Dang Gui),
Chuanxiong (Chuan Xiong), Red Peony (Chi Shao), Rehmannia (Sheng Di),
Bupleurum (Chai Hu), Platycodon (Jie Geng), Licorice (Gan Cao)
Action: Invigorates blood, resolves stasis, regulates Qi, and
relieves pain.
Modifications
| Associated Symptoms | Additions/Subtractions |
|---|
| Severe pain | Add Ru Xiang, Mo Yao to relieve pain |
|---|
| Numbness | Add Ji Xue Teng, Dan Shen to improve circulation |
|---|
| Night aggravation |
|---|
and relieve pain |
Western Mechanism Reference
Post-viral nerve damage with microcirculatory disturbance, local
inflammation, and impaired nerve repair. Qi Stagnation with Blood Stasis
corresponds to post-herpetic neuralgia with significant nerve damage,
where chronic inflammation and impaired microcirculation contribute to
persistent pain and sensory disturbance.
References
1. Database + Textbook.
2. Zeng, L., et al. (2014). Acupuncture for post-herpetic neuralgia.
Pain Medicine, 15(6), 986-993.
3. WHO. (2023). Post-herpetic neuralgia 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 Post Herpetic Neuralgia
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.