Author: Chen Yan, Practicing Traditional Chinese Medicine Physician (Practice License Number: 241330108000021) This article is written by Dr. Chen Yan and is based on classical theories of Traditional Chinese Medicine and clinical experience. It is intended for general knowledge and educational purposes only. The qualifications can be verified on the official website of the National Health Commission of China.
"Ten out of nine people suffer from lower back pain, with about 30% experiencing unilateral pain." In clinical practice, it is not uncommon to encounter patients with localized pain, where one side of the body hurts while the other remains unaffected. This is not merely a case of muscle strain but often indicates a specific imbalance in the body's internal Qi flow or meridians. Why does one side of the body hurt while the other remains unaffected? This question is deeply rooted in the unique principles of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM).
According to TCM, the human body is an integrated whole, where each part is interconnected. When there is an imbalance in the body, it can manifest as pain or discomfort in a specific area. In the case of unilateral lower back pain, it may be due to an imbalance in the meridians that run along the affected side. For example, if the Liver meridian is blocked, it can lead to pain on the right side of the lower back, while the left side remains unaffected.
Understanding the root cause of the pain is crucial in TCM treatment. Dr. Chen Yan emphasizes that treatment should not only alleviate the symptoms but also address the underlying imbalance. This can be achieved through various TCM modalities such as acupuncture, herbal medicine, and lifestyle adjustments.