The most common cold conditions I see in the clinic during this time of year are cold in the joints. One patient recently described waking up feeling like her knees were “stuck,” with her hands stiff until she sat by the heater with a warm cup of tea.
These aches, stiffness, and discomfort often worsen in colder weather, and while they may seem like a normal seasonal nuisance, Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) offers a different perspective. In TCM, these symptoms indicate more than just a response to chilly temperatures—they reflect an imbalance in the body’s internal energy.
How TCM Explains Cold in the Body
In TCM, cold is one of the Six Pathogenic Factors (alongside wind, heat, dampness, dryness, and fire). These external influences can disturb the body’s harmony when its protective energy, known as Wei Qi (defensive energy), is compromised.
What is Cold in TCM?
Cold energy is associated with yin, the cooling, contracting, and slowing force in the body. It can present in two key ways:
- External Cold: When environmental cold invades the body due to insufficient protection or a weakened immune system. Symptoms include chills, body aches, and a clear runny nose.
- Internal Cold: Caused by a deficiency in yang energy—the warming, active counterpart to yin. This can lead to symptoms like cold hands and feet, fatigue, poor digestion, and a pale complexion.
How Cold Affects Your Joints
Cold is notorious for settling into the joints, causing stiffness, pain, and limited mobility—especially in cold or damp environments. TCM refers to this as Cold Bi Syndrome, a type of obstruction syndrome.
Signs of Cold Bi Syndrome:
- Deep, fixed pain in the joints.
- Symptoms that improve with warmth but worsen with cold exposure.
- Morning stiffness or difficulty moving after rest.
Cold obstructs the flow of Qi (vital energy) and blood, creating stagnation in the muscles, tendons, and joints, which can lead to further discomfort if not addressed.
TCM Treatments for Cold
In TCM, treatment focuses on warming the body, improving circulation, and dispelling stagnation. These therapies are personalized to your symptoms and may include:
- Acupuncture: Points like Stomach 36 (Zu San Li) and Du 4 (Ming Men) stimulate warmth and energy flow.
- Moxibustion: The burning of mugwort near the skin provides direct warmth and relieves joint pain.
- Herbal Medicine: Warming herbs like cinnamon (Rou Gui) and dried aconite (Fu Zi) are often prescribed.
- Dietary Therapy: Foods like bone broth, ginger tea, and warming spices (e.g., cinnamon and garlic) can help maintain internal warmth.
Tips to Stay Warm and Balanced This Winter
Protect your body and maintain energy flow during the colder months with these simple strategies:
- Dress Warmly: Cover key areas like your neck, lower back, and feet to shield your Yang energy.
- Stay Active: Gentle movement keeps circulation flowing and prevents Qi stagnation.
- Eat Warming Foods: Soups, stews, and spices like ginger, cinnamon, and turmeric can support internal warmth.
- Avoid Cold Exposure: Limit cold drinks, raw foods, and extended time in cold environments.
Cold as a Symbol of Stagnation
In TCM, cold isn’t just a physical phenomenon—it represents stagnation and a retreat from life’s natural rhythms. By addressing cold through acupuncture, moxibustion, or even a cozy bowl of soup, you’re not just warming your body but also revitalizing your energy and zest for life.
Feeling the Chill?
Don’t let cold joint pain or stiffness slow you down. Reach out to us or a qualified practitioner in your area today and discover how TCM can help you find relief and restore balance to your body.
“The only way to optimal health is to care for ourselves emotionally, physically, and mentally every day.”
Sheri Davidson, licensed acupuncturist and wellness coach, specializes in preventative medicine. She loves sharing her passion for wellness living and Eastern medicine through her blog, The Wellness Inspired Podcast, and practice, Element 5, Acupuncture + Wellness in Rice Village District of Houston, TX.
To learn more about wellness, living, and natural healing, follow Element 5, Acupuncture + Wellness, on Instagram, Facebook, Google, and Linkedin. Please share if you know anyone who would benefit from our content.
Let’s stay healthy together!
Sheri Davidson, L.Ac. + Wellness Coach