Tension Headache - Blood Stasis Pattern
TCM differentiation and treatment for tension headache
Tension Headache · Blood Stasis Pattern
Updated: June 23, 2026
Reviewed by: Dr. Li Wei, DACM
Reading Time: 7 min
Body Area: Head
Pattern Overview
Blood Stasis is a chronic pattern in tension headache, characterized by
**chronic pain-induced central sensitization, fixed headache, worsened
at night, and dull complexion. The core pathogenesis is Blood stasis
in the head collaterals**, leading to cerebral blood flow abnormalities,
central sensitization, and persistent headache.
Key Symptoms and Differentiation Points
| Differentiation Dimension | Manifestations |
|---|
| Primary Symptoms |
|---|
at night |
| Associated Symptoms |
|---|
poor memory |
| Tongue and Pulse |
|---|
pulse |
| Pathogenesis | Blood stasis in the head collaterals |
|---|
| Etiology |
|---|
poor circulation |
Acupuncture Point Prescription
| Point | Location | Function |
|---|
| Fengchi (GB20) |
|---|
sternocleidomastoid and trapezius | Unblocks the head collaterals and
relieves pain |
| Taiyang (EX-HN5) | In the depression at the temple |
|---|
blood in the head and relieves pain |
| Hegu (LI4) |
|---|
metacarpals | Regulates Qi and invigorates blood |
| Xuehai (SP10) | On the medial thigh, 2 cun above the patella |
|---|
Invigorates blood and resolves stasis |
| Ashi points | Tender spots around the head |
|---|
invigoration and pain relief |
Clinical Recommendation: Filament needle, reducing method; may
combine with cupping on the neck to enhance blood stasis resolution.
Herbal Formula
Base Formula: Tong Qiao Huo Xue Tang (通窍活血汤)
Composition:
Peach Kernel (Tao Ren), Safflower (Hong Hua), Angelica (Dang Gui),
Chuanxiong (Chuan Xiong), Red Peony (Chi Shao), Musk (She Xiang),
Scallion (Lao Cong), Ginger (Sheng Jiang), Jujube (Hong Zao), Licorice
(Gan Cao)
Action: Invigorates blood, resolves stasis, unblocks the orifices,
and relieves pain.
Modifications
| Associated Symptoms | Additions/Subtractions |
|---|
| Severe pain | Add Ru Xiang, Mo Yao to relieve pain |
|---|
| Dizziness | Add Tian Ma, Gou Teng to calm Liver Wind |
|---|
| Dull complexion | Add Dan Shen, San Qi to enhance blood invigoration |
|---|
| Poor memory |
|---|
improve cognition |
Western Mechanism Reference
Chronic pain-induced central sensitization with cerebral blood flow
abnormalities, elevated substance P, and CGRP. Blood Stasis corresponds
to chronic tension headache with central sensitization, where cerebral
blood flow abnormalities and elevated nociceptive mediators contribute
to persistent pain.
References
1. Internal Medicine of TCM - Headache with Blood Stasis.
2. Xiong Jibai: Blood Stasis uses Tao Hong Si Wu Tang.
3. WHO. (2023). Headache disorders. World Health Organization.
Explore More
- Find your solution at MendGod.com –
Personalized herbal protocols and acupressure tools for headache relief.
- Deepen your knowledge at TcmCIO.com – Full
research papers and clinical case studies on TCM headache management.
Related TCM Patterns for Tension Headache
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.