Hand and Foot Pain: Insights from Traditional Chinese Medicine

Pain in the hands and feet?

Hello doctor, I have been experiencing pain in my hands and feet recently.
At that time, I was worried about rheumatoid arthritis, and the more I thought about it, the more it hurt.
Later, I went to see an immunologist, who told me everything was fine.
Because I was very anxious, I also consulted a neurologist (I saw three or four different doctors, and they all said to relax and that there was nothing wrong; one of them performed nerve conduction studies and electromyography on one side, which were normal).
I also consulted a psychiatrist because I was concerned about multiple sclerosis.
After seeing the doctors, the pain subsided, but then I started to feel a bit of discomfort again.
I went back to the immunologist for more in-depth tests.
The doctor asked a lot of detailed questions, and the results were also normal.
I felt relieved for a few days, but after a day or two, I started worrying about diabetes.
After dealing with that, when I returned to school, the pain in my hands and feet started again (mainly in my fingertips and the soles of my feet).
Recently, the skin on my hands and feet sometimes feels tight and painful, but only in small areas; my foot tendons seem to hurt a little, and all symptoms last only a few seconds.
It’s really frustrating, and sometimes quite painful.
I don’t know what to do now; I feel exhausted and am afraid that I might have multiple sclerosis, which would be disastrous (or even worse diseases; I don’t want to research anymore because every time I do, I fall into fear).
I don’t know what to do now.
Should I adjust my diet? (I love drinking iced beverages) Should I see a doctor again? I have already seen over 30 Western medicine doctors this year.
I was thinking about going to Hualien to see Dr.
Hsu Rui-yun for energy medicine, but it’s very expensive, and I can’t afford it.
I am 186 cm tall, weigh 63 kg, have some anxiety, and currently have no known hereditary or chronic diseases.

Dàxuéshēng, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2020/09/15

Dr. Yan Sumei reply Traditional Chinese Medicine

Dear college student,
Hello! After 30 visits to Western medicine practitioners, all have said that you are fine, yet you still suspect that something is wrong with your body.
You may be wondering what to do next.
While feeling anxious about your health, have you also considered whether there are other sources of anxiety in your life, such as academics, friendships, or interpersonal relationships? Perhaps by addressing these other aspects, you can find answers.
It might be helpful to talk to a trusted elder or teacher at your school who has counseling skills, or to take some time to reflect and honestly confront yourself.
Ask yourself what pressures are binding you and making it hard to breathe.
Identifying the root causes and facing them may lead to solutions, and perhaps your anxiety about your health will improve.
Wishing you peace and fulfillment.
Sincerely,
Yen Su-Mei, Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Nantou Hospital

Reply Date: 2020/09/15

More Info

Understanding hand and foot pain through the lens of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) can provide valuable insights, especially when conventional medical evaluations yield no definitive answers. Your experience of persistent pain in your hands and feet, coupled with anxiety about serious conditions like rheumatoid arthritis or multiple sclerosis, is understandably distressing.
In TCM, pain is often viewed as a manifestation of an imbalance in the body's energy (Qi), blood, or the health of specific organs. The symptoms you describe, such as pain in the fingertips and soles of your feet, could be attributed to several TCM concepts, including Qi stagnation, blood deficiency, or even dampness accumulation.

1. Qi Stagnation: This occurs when the flow of Qi is obstructed, often due to emotional stress or physical strain. Given your anxiety and the psychological burden of worrying about serious illnesses, it is plausible that Qi stagnation could be contributing to your symptoms. TCM practitioners might recommend acupuncture or herbal remedies to help restore the smooth flow of Qi throughout your body.

2. Blood Deficiency: In TCM, blood is essential for nourishing the body and maintaining healthy function. Symptoms like tingling, numbness, or pain can arise when there is insufficient blood to nourish the extremities. This could be particularly relevant if you have dietary habits that do not support blood production, such as a diet low in iron or other essential nutrients. Foods that are rich in iron, such as leafy greens, red meat, and legumes, along with TCM herbs like Dang Gui (Angelica Sinensis), could be beneficial.

3. Dampness Accumulation: TCM also considers the impact of environmental factors on health. If you are prone to dampness (which can be exacerbated by consuming cold or raw foods and drinks), it may lead to symptoms like heaviness, swelling, or pain in the limbs. Reducing the intake of cold beverages and incorporating warming foods, such as ginger and cinnamon, may help alleviate these symptoms.

4. Emotional Factors: Your experience of anxiety and stress is significant. TCM recognizes the connection between emotional health and physical symptoms. Practices such as Tai Chi, Qi Gong, or meditation can help manage stress and promote overall well-being. Engaging in these practices may not only help reduce your physical symptoms but also improve your mental state.

5. Consultation with TCM Practitioners: Since you have already seen multiple Western medical specialists without a clear diagnosis, it may be worthwhile to consult a TCM practitioner. They can provide a holistic assessment of your condition, considering not just your physical symptoms but also your emotional and dietary habits. TCM treatments may include acupuncture, herbal medicine, dietary recommendations, and lifestyle adjustments tailored to your unique constitution.

6. Dietary Adjustments: While you enjoy cold drinks, consider moderating their intake, especially if you notice a correlation between these habits and your symptoms. Instead, try warm herbal teas or broths that can support digestion and overall health.

In conclusion, while your concerns about serious medical conditions are valid, TCM offers a different perspective that emphasizes balance and harmony within the body. By addressing potential Qi stagnation, blood deficiency, and dampness, alongside managing emotional stress, you may find relief from your symptoms. It’s essential to approach this journey with patience and an open mind, allowing your body the time it needs to heal.

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