Traditional Chinese Medicine for Muscle Pain
From the perspective of traditional Chinese medicine, pain is generally caused by blockage in the flow of qi and blood throughout pathways in the body. Blockage of qi may lead to muscle pain, joint pain and headache. It can also be caused by disorders in internal organs and pathways in the body.
There are over-the-counter medications that are effective to relieve muscle pain. Many people rely on painkillers just to get through the day, but they work well in short-term only. Long-term use of painkillers can have serious side effects. Instead of making you feel better, they may cause more health problems. Many people turn to alternative method include Chinese medicine to avoid the long-term side effects of painkillers.
Acupuncture for Muscle Pain
Research has shown that acupuncture can cause the body to produce natural steroids and promote the production of natural endorphins. Steroids decrease inflammation, while endorphins are produced by the body to relieve pain. Both substances can play an important part in the breaking up of the pain cycle. Also, acupuncture is effective to relieve muscle tension, release muscle knots and reclaim full blood circulation through the affected area.
Many studies suggest that cupping therapy can significantly reduce muscle pain compare to usual care such as pain relievers, muscle relaxants and physical therapy. Cupping is thought to release tissues deep inside the body, relax tense muscles and ease stiffness associated with chronic muscle pain. Professional athletes have been known to use cupping therapy to improve performance and reduce stiffness, muscle cramp and joint pain. (Cupping Therapy)
Muscle Pain Relief
1) Yan Hu Suo (Corydalis) has been traditionally used for pain relief. Many studies suggest that Yan Hu Suo can block inflammation and nerve pain. It contains a pain-relieving compound called dehydrocorybulbine (DHCB), which is believed to produce pain-relieving effects by blocking pain signals in the brain (1).
2) Tian Qi (Notoginseng) is often used to relieve muscle pain in Chinese medicine. It can reduce pain by promoting blood circulation.
