What's Behind the Throbbing Pain on Both Sides of the Temples? A Perspective from Traditional Chinese Medicine

Author: Li Mingjiu, Practicing Traditional Chinese Medicine Physician (Practice License Number: 141330522000349) This article is written by Dr. Li Mingjiu, based on classical theories of traditional Chinese medicine and clinical experience, and is intended for general knowledge only. The qualification can be verified on the official website of the National Health Commission of China.

Many friends who come for consultations often ask me a question: "The pain on both sides of my temples jumps and twitches, what could it be?" It sounds like the vessels are pulsating with the heartbeat, causing discomfort and restlessness. From the perspective of clinical experience in traditional Chinese medicine, this type of throbbing pain is often seen in individuals with excessive liver yang or insufficient Qi and blood, but the specific situation requires careful differentiation. Today, let's delve into the understanding of this condition from the perspective of traditional Chinese medicine.

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In traditional Chinese medicine, the head is considered the "residence of the spirit," and the temples are closely related to the liver and gallbladder meridians. The liver is responsible for storing blood and governing emotions, while the gallbladder is associated with decision-making and the ability to see things clearly. When the liver is out of balance, it can manifest as pain or discomfort in the temples.

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There are several potential causes for the throbbing pain on the temples, according to traditional Chinese medicine:

1. Excess Liver Yang: This condition occurs when the liver's yang energy becomes excessive, leading to heat and inflammation, which can manifest as pain in the temples.
2. Deficiency of Qi and Blood: Insufficient Qi and blood flow can cause the vessels to constrict, leading to pain or numbness in the temples.
3. Stagnation of Qi and Blood: Obstruction of the Qi and blood flow in the meridians can cause pain, particularly in the form of throbbing or stabbing sensations.

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Diagnosis in traditional Chinese medicine involves a comprehensive evaluation of the patient's symptoms, pulse, and tongue. Based on this assessment, the practitioner can determine the underlying cause of the pain and recommend appropriate treatment.

Treatment options may include:

1. Acupuncture: Acupuncture can help to unblock the meridians and promote the flow of Qi and blood, thereby alleviating pain.
2. Chinese Herbs: Herbs can be prescribed to address the specific imbalance in the body, whether it's excess liver yang or deficiency of Qi and blood.
3. Lifestyle Changes: Adjustments to diet, exercise, and stress management can also be beneficial in managing temporal throbbing pain.