Bruises and Strains: Insights from Traditional Chinese Medicine

Trauma

1.
Regarding the diagnosis certificates issued by traditional Chinese medicine clinics that mention "contusions" and "strains," I would like to ask the doctor: Are contusions and strains externally observable? Specifically, do they indicate redness, swelling, or bruising? Or are these types of injuries not visibly apparent, and the diagnosis is based on the patient's complaints (for example, the patient feels pain in a certain area) and the doctor's experience, without visible signs?
2.
If there is a rib tear, can traditional Chinese medicine diagnose it without an X-ray? I mean, can traditional Chinese medicine reach a diagnosis of a rib tear without the assistance of scientific instruments?
3.
Regarding the origins of the injuries described in the first part, can traditional Chinese medicine also "diagnose" how the contusions and strains occurred? For instance, can it determine if it was due to an impact or a heavy blow? Or do practitioners of traditional Chinese medicine also rely on inference and cannot definitively conclude how the injury or bruising occurred?
4.
Finally, concerning bruises (minor ones, about 1-2 centimeters), how long does it generally take for an average person to heal?

Lin, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2005/02/07

Dr. Lin Qingzhong reply Traditional Chinese Medicine

1.
The definitions of injuries such as "contusions" and "strains" are more focused on pediatric oncology in my case; for further inquiries, one may consult the Chinese Medicine Orthopedics Association.

2.
For rib injuries, if there is a tear, a diagnosis through X-ray in traditional Chinese medicine would be more accurate.
Generally, if a patient experiences severe pain in the ribs, it is advisable not to palpate the area, and one should consider the possibility of a contusion or fracture.
3.
Regarding the causes of the injuries, since the physician is not a witness, most diagnoses rely on the patient's description.
Typically, the cause of the injury is not documented in the medical report to avoid unnecessary complications for the physician.

Reply Date: 2005/02/07

More Info

Understanding bruises and strains from the perspective of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) can provide valuable insights into diagnosis and treatment. Let’s address your questions one by one.

1. Visibility of Bruises and Strains: In TCM, both bruises (挫傷) and strains (拉傷) can manifest with visible signs such as redness, swelling, and bruising. A bruise typically appears as a discoloration of the skin due to blood pooling under the surface, while a strain may present with swelling and tenderness in the affected area. However, not all injuries will have visible signs. For instance, a strain may occur without any external bruising, and the diagnosis may rely heavily on the patient's subjective reports of pain and discomfort. TCM practitioners use a combination of observation (望), listening (聞), inquiry (問), and pulse diagnosis (切) to assess the condition, which means that even without visible signs, they can often determine the nature of the injury based on the patient's symptoms and their experience.

2. Diagnosis of Rib Tears: Regarding rib injuries, TCM practitioners can diagnose conditions like rib tears without the use of X-rays. They rely on the patient's symptoms, such as pain during breathing or movement, and physical examination techniques. While TCM does not use scientific instruments like X-rays, it employs a holistic approach to assess the body’s condition. The practitioner may palpate the area to identify tenderness or unusual sensations, which can indicate a deeper issue, such as a tear or fracture.

3. Understanding the Cause of Injuries: TCM can often deduce the cause of an injury based on the patient's history and the nature of the injury itself. For example, if a bruise is the result of a direct impact, the practitioner may note the mechanism of injury and correlate it with the symptoms presented. However, TCM does not typically diagnose based solely on the visible signs; it considers the overall context, including the patient's lifestyle, emotional state, and physical constitution. Thus, while TCM practitioners can make educated guesses about the cause of an injury, they may not always provide a definitive conclusion without further inquiry.

4. Healing Time for Bruises: The healing time for minor bruises (1-2 cm) can vary depending on several factors, including the individual's overall health, age, and the severity of the injury. Generally, small bruises may take about 1 to 2 weeks to heal completely. TCM emphasizes the importance of blood circulation and Qi (energy) flow in the healing process. Treatments may include acupuncture, herbal remedies, and dietary recommendations to enhance recovery. For instance, certain herbs are known to promote blood circulation and reduce swelling, which can expedite healing.

In summary, TCM offers a comprehensive approach to diagnosing and treating bruises and strains. While it may not rely on modern imaging techniques, it utilizes a deep understanding of the body’s systems and the interplay of various factors affecting health. If you are experiencing such injuries, consulting a qualified TCM practitioner can provide you with tailored treatment options that address both the symptoms and underlying causes of your condition.

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