Treating Low Back Pain with Western and

Oriental Medicine

By

John Chen
Pharm.D., Ph.D., O.M.D., L.Ac.

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TREATING LOW BACK PAIN WITH
WESTERN AND CHINESE MEDICINE

by John Chen, L.Ac., D.O.M., Ph.D., Pharm.D.

WESTERN MEDICINE

Introduction and Clinical Manifestations

Low back pain is also called lumbago and is caused by injury to either the muscle or ligament in
the lumbar region. Although the exact cause of low back pain can sometimes be difficult to
pinpoint, most acute low back pain stem from a number of activities such as poor posture, lack of
regular exercise, moving furniture, yard work, heavy lifting and from structural factors like a
fracture, ruptured disk, or arthritis. Other causes of pain may be due to spraining the ligaments
between the vertebreas or in the sacroiliac joint of the low back.

Etiology
Causes of these injuries may be external (sports injuries, car accidents, trauma), internal (chronic
wear and tear of muscles, ligaments and tendons; bones weakened by osteoporosis), or both.
Acute injuries are characterized by severe pain, swelling and inflammation, and in some cases,
internal bleeding.

The most common causes of low back pain are:

1. Injury and overuse
2. Pressure on nerve root resulting from herniated disc
3. Osteoarthritis

The least common causes of low back pain are:

1. Spinal tumors
2. Bacterial infection in the bone or spinal cord
;

TREATING LOW BACK PAIN WITH WESTERN AND CHINESE MEDICINE

Symptoms

Low back pain is typically self-diagnosable and the people generally experience spasms,
cramping, stiffness, and pain in the back and buttock. If there is nerve root pressure, there could
be a tingling, numbness, or weakness sensation in the low back, buttocks, or legs.

Diagnosis

Generally, low back pain will go away on its own and does not require medical treatment.
However, if there is numbness in the legs that worsens, loss of bowel or bladder control,
increased back pain with fever, painful urination, or long term back pain that suddenly gets worse,
then the primary care physician must be contacted immediately.

Treatments
Treatment of acute injuries should focus on relieving pain, reducing swelling and inflammation,
and stopping bleeding. Chronic injuries are characterized by dull pain, stiffness and numbness,
and decreased muscle mass and strength. Treatment of chronic injuries includes relief of pain,
and restoration of physical and physiological functions.

Although acute low back pain goes away on its own, some people find relief with pain
medications, heat pads, and physical exercise such as stretching. Below are popular treatments
for low back pain:

Medication: nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, analgesic, muscle relaxant, and narcotic

Self-care: Heating pad, yoga, physical exercise, stretching, massage, acupuncture, joint
manipulation
Medical procedures: Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation, epidural steroid injection

TRADITIONAL CHINESE MEDICINE

Introduction and Etiology

The low back is dominated by the Bladder and Du channels. The Bladder channel consists of an
internal branch that enters the lumbar paravertebral muscles to connect with the Kidney and
Bladder organs. The Kidney channel has an internal branch that enter the spinal column at
Changqiang (GV 1) and travels upward to connect with the Bladder and Kidney organs.
;

TREATING LOW BACK PAIN WITH WESTERN AND CHINESE MEDICINE

Causes

Internal causes include Kidney yin deficiency, Kidney yang deficiency, Liver qi stagnation,
Accumulation of cold-damp, and accumulation of damp-heat. External causes include trauma,
invasion of wind-cold-damp and invasion of damp-heat.

Acupuncture Treatment

Traditional Points:
Yaotongxue, Huantiao (GB 30), Yaoyan (Extra 9), Shenshu (BL 23), Weizhong (BL 40)

Classic Master Tung’s Points:

 Needle contralateral to the pain. If the pain is in the center, needle bilaterally or the side
with the more ah shi points. If the pain is bilateral, needle bilaterally.
 Linggu (T 22.05), Zhongbai (T 22.06), Xiabai (T 22.07), Wanshunyi (T 22.08), Wanshuner
(T 22.09), Chongzi (T 22.01), Chongxian (T 22.02), Erjiaoming (T 11.12), Tianhuangfu
[Shenguan] (T 77.18), Zhongjiuli (T 88.25), Zhengjin (T 77.01), Zhengzong (T 77.02),
Weizhong (BL 40), Majinshui (T 1010.13), Makuaishui (T 1010.14), Shuiqu (T 66.09)
 Bleed Weizhong (BL 40) or dark veins nearby. Bleed painful area on the back with
cupping. Bleed before needling for best result.

Master Tung’s Points by Dr. Chuan-Min Wang:

 For acute pain, bleed first then needle.
 For chronic pain, needle first then bleed.
 Mid back pain: Needle contralaterally Chongzi (T 22.01), Chongxian (T 22.02), Zhengjin
(T 77.01), Zhengzong (T 77.02). Bleed ipsilaterally popliteal fossa or local tender spot.
 Low back pain: Bleed ipsilaterally popliteal fossa or local tender spot.
o L1-L3 pain: Needle contralaterally Zhongbai (T 22.06), Xiabai (T 22.07).
o L4-L5 pain: Needle contralaterally Dabai (T 22.04), Linggu (T 22.05).
o S1-S2 pain: Needle contralaterally Wanshunyi (T 22.08), Wanshuner (T 22.09).
 Hip pain: Needle contralaterally Jianzhong (T 44.06), Xiaqu (T 44.15), Shangqu (T 44.16),
Yunbai (T 44.11), Libai (T 44.12). Bleed ipsilaterally popliteal fossa or local tender spot.
 Sciatic pain: Needle contralaterally Dabai (T 22.04), Linggu (T 22.05), Wanshunyi (T
22.08). Needle ipsilaterally Weizhong (BL 40), Kunlun (BL 60), Zuqianjin (T 77.24),
Zuwujin (T 77.25).

Balance Method by Dr. Richard Tan:

 Needle the following points on the side opposite the pain: Hegu (LI 4), Houxi (SI 3),
Wangu (SI 4), Linggu (T 22.05), Dabai (T 22.04), Zhongbai (T 22.06), Dazhong (KI 4) or
ah shi points nearby, Fuliu (KI 7), Ququan (LR 8) or ah shi points nearby
 Needle the following points on the same side as the pain: All ah shi points nearby Chize
;

TREATING LOW BACK PAIN WITH WESTERN AND CHINESE MEDICINE

(LU 5), Kongzui (LU 6), Shaohai (HT 3) to Lingdao (HT 4), Shugu (BL 65)
 Needle ah shi points around Fengfu (GV 16) to Houding (GV 19).

Ear Acupuncture:
 Sciatic pain: Lower Back, Hip, Sciatic, and Pituitary Gland. Embed needles or use ear
seeds in both ears, and instruct the patient to massage the points three to four times daily
for two to three minutes each time.
 Tailbone injury: Coccyx, Adrenal Gland, Pituitary Gland

Auricular Medicine by Dr. Li-Chun Huang:

 Occiput, Lesser Occiput Nerve, Large Auricular Nerve, Shenmen. Corresponding area of
pain in the lumbar, sacral, sciatic area in the front and back of the ear. Bleed Ear Apex.

Herbal Treatment

Damp-Cold

Du Huo Ji Sheng Tang (Angelica Pubescens and Taxillus Decoction)

Du Huo (Radix Angelicae Pubescentis) 9g

Xi Xin (Radix et Rhizoma Asari) 6g
Fang Feng (Radix Saposhnikoviae) 6g
Qin Jiao (Radix Gentianae Macrophyllae) 6g
Sang Ji Sheng (Herba Taxilli) 6g
Du Zhong (Cortex Eucommiae) 6g
Chuan Niu Xi (Radix Cyathulae) 6g
Dang Gui (Radix Angelicae Sinensis) 6g
Chuan Xiong (Rhizoma Chuanxiong) 6g
Di Huang (Radix Rehmanniae) 6g
Bai Shao (Radix Paeoniae Alba) 6g
Ren Shen (Radix et Rhizoma Ginseng) 6g
Fu Ling (Poria) 6g
Gui Xin (Cortex Rasus Cinnamomi) 6g
Gan Cao (Radix et Rhizoma Glycyrrhizae) 6g

EXPLANATION
Du Huo Ji Sheng Tang (Angelica Pubescens and Taxillus Decoction) treats bi zheng (painful
obstruction syndrome) characterized by chronic accumulation of wind, cold, and dampness with
Liver and Kidney insufficiencies and qi and blood deficiencies. This syndrome begins with
accumulation of wind, cold, and dampness in the channels and collaterals. As they obstruct qi
and blood circulation, malnourishment of the Liver and Kidney occur. If this condition becomes
;

TREATING LOW BACK PAIN WITH WESTERN AND CHINESE MEDICINE

chronic, qi, blood, Liver, and Kidney all become deficient. Thus, besides having aches and pains,
the patient may also experience weakness of the knees and lower back, as well as difficulty in
moving the limbs and extremities.

Since this condition is complicated by both excess (accumulation of wind, cold, and dampness)
and deficiency (of Liver, Kidney, qi, and blood), optimal treatment requires the use of herbs that
concurrently dispel wind, cold, and dampness, as well as herbs that nourish the Liver and Kidney;
tonify qi and blood; and relieve pain.

In this formula, a large dose of Du Huo (Radix Angelicae Pubescentis) is used to dispel wind,
cold, and dampness in the lower parts of the body. Xi Xin (Radix et Rhizoma Asari) disperses
wind, cold, and dampness and relieves pain. Fang Feng (Radix Saposhnikoviae) dispels wind
and dampness. Qin Jiao (Radix Gentianae Macrophyllae) dispels wind and dampness and
soothes the tendons. Sang Ji Sheng (Herba Taxilli), Du Zhong (Cortex Eucommiae), and Chuan
Niu Xi (Radix Cyathulae) dispel wind and dampness and also tonify the Liver and Kidney.
DangGui (Radix Angelicae Sinensis), Chuan Xiong (Rhizoma Chuanxiong), Di Huang (Radix
Rehmanniae), and Bai Shao (Radix Paeoniae Alba) tonify blood and activate blood circulation.
Ren Shen (Radix et Rhizoma Ginseng) and Fu Ling (Poria) strengthen the Spleen and tonify qi.
Gui Xin (Cortex Rasus Cinnamomi) warms the channels and opens the blood vessels. Gan Cao
(Radix et Rhizoma Glycyrrhizae) harmonizes the herbs in the formula.

CAUTIONS / CONTRAINDICATIONS
 Du Huo Ji Sheng Tang should be used with caution during pregnancy.
 This formula is contraindicated in bi zheng (painful obstruction syndrome) caused by
excess heat or damp-heat.

PHARMACOLOGICAL EFFECTS
1. Analgesic and anti-inflammatory: Du Huo Ji Sheng Tang has been shown to relieve pain
and reduce inflammation in both rats and mice.
2. Anti-inflammatory: Administration of Du Huo Ji ShengTang or Dang Gui Nian Tong Tang
(Tangkuei Decoction to Lift the Pain) was associated with marked anti-inflammatoryeffects in
suppressing the development of chronic arthritis induced by carrageenan or complete Freund’s
adjuvant. The researchers suggested that these herbal formulas may be considered as
alternatives for non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAID).
3. Circulatory: One study reported decreased vascular resistance and increased blood perfusion
to the brain using Du Huo Ji Sheng Tang administered orally or via injection.
4. Antiplatelet: Du Huo Ji Sheng Tang was shown to have a significant antiplatelet effect in
rabbits.
;

TREATING LOW BACK PAIN WITH WESTERN AND CHINESE MEDICINE

Damp-Heat

Er Miao San (Two-Marvel Powder)

Huang Bo (Cortex Phellodendri Chinensis), chao (dry-fried) 15g

Cang Zhu (Rhizoma Atractylodis), jin (soaked) in rice water and chao (dry-fried) 15g

EXPLANATION
Er Miao San (Two-Marvel Powder) treats bi zheng(painful obstruction syndrome) in the lower half
of the body due to damp-heat. Damp-heat may attack the bones and tendons, causing aches and
pains with redness, swelling, and burning sensations. Chronic cases of dampheat may contribute
to weakness and atrophy of the leg muscles. Damp-heat may also affect the dai (girdle) channel
and genital region, causing leukorrhea and sores.

Lastly, damp-heat may also interfere with the urinary system, causing scanty, yellow urine. A
yellow, greasy tongue coating is a sign of damp-heat in the body. Huang Bo (Cortex Phellodendri
Chinensis), with its tendency to travel to the lower body, clears heat and dries dampness. Cang
Zhu (Rhizoma Atractylodis), bitter and warm, also dries dampness. Er Miao San contains only
two herbs, yet it achieves marvelous results, which is why it is named “Two-Marvel Powder.”

CAUTIONS / CONTRAINDICATIONS
 Er Miao San is indicated for bi zheng (painful obstruction syndrome) with equal amounts
of heat and dampness. Modification is needed if the amount of heat and dampness are
not the same.
 This formula is contraindicated in patients with Liver and Kidney yin deficiencies, or with
body fluids consumed by Lung heat.
 Avoid foods that are sweet, fatty, or greasy.

Blood Stagnation

Shen Tong Zhu Yu Tang (Drive Out Blood Stasis from a Painful Body Decoction)

Tao Ren (Semen Persicae) 9g

Hong Hua (Flos Carthami) 9g
Dang Gui (Radix Angelicae Sinensis) 9g
Chuan Xiong (Rhizoma Chuanxiong) 6g
Mo Yao (Myrrha) 6g
Wu Ling Zhi (Faeces Trogopteri), chao (dry-fried) 6g
Di Long (Pheretima) 6g
;

TREATING LOW BACK PAIN WITH WESTERN AND CHINESE MEDICINE

Qin Jiao (Radix Gentianae Macrophyllae) 3g

Qiang Huo (Rhizoma et Radix Notopterygii) 3g
Xiang Fu (Rhizoma Cyperi) 3g
Niu Xi (Radix Achyranthis Bidentatae) 9g
Gan Cao (Radix et Rhizoma Glycyrrhizae) 6g

EXPLANATION
Shen Tong Zhu Yu Tang (Drive Out Blood Stasis from a Painful Body Decoction) activates qi and
blood circulation, dispels blood stagnation, opens the channels and collaterals, and relieves pain.
Clinically, it is often used for pain due to stagnation of qi and blood. Pain may be located in the
shoulder, elbow, waist, leg, or throughout the whole body.

In this formula, Tao Ren (Semen Persicae) and Hong Hua (Flos Carthami) activate blood
circulation and eliminate blood stasis. Dang Gui (Radix Angelicae Sinensis) and Chuan Xiong
(Rhizoma Chuanxiong) nourish the blood and promote blood circulation. Mo Yao (Myrrha)
relieves pain by invigorating blood circulation. Wu Ling Zhi (Faeces Trogopteri) and Di Long
(Pheretima) dispel blood stasis and open the channels and collaterals. Qin Jiao (Radix Gentianae
Macrophyllae) and Qiang Huo (Rhizoma et Radix Notopterygii) dispel wind-dampness to relieve
pain. Xiang Fu (Rhizoma Cyperi) activates qi to relieve pain. Niu Xi (Radix Achyranthis
Bidentatae) strengthens bones, tendons, and soft tissues. Gan Cao(Radix et Rhizoma
Glycyrrhizae) harmonizes the herbs in the formula.

CAUTIONS / CONTRAINDICATIONS
Use of Shen Tong Zhu Yu Tang is contraindicated during pregnancy.

PHARMACOLOGICAL EFFECTS
Analgesic and anti-inflammatory: According to in vitro studies, administration of Shen Tong
Zhu Yu Tang in tincture form was effective in relieving pain and reducing inflammation

Kidney Deficiency

You Gui Wan (Restore the Right [Kidney] Pill)

Rou Gui (Cortex Cinnamomi) 60-120g [6-12g]

Fu Zi (Radix Aconiti Lateralis Praeparata), zhi (prepared) 60-180g [6-18g]
Shu Di Huang (Radix Rehmanniae Praeparata) 240g [24g]
Shan Zhu Yu (Fructus Corni), chao (dry-fried) 90g [9g]
Shan Yao (Rhizoma Dioscoreae), chao (dry-fried) 120g [12g]
Gou Qi Zi (Fructus Lycii), chao (dry-fried) 120g [12g]
Lu Jiao Jiao (Colla Cornus Cervi), chao (dry-fried) 120g [12g]
Tu Si Zi (Semen Cuscutae), zhi (prepared) 120g [12g]
;

TREATING LOW BACK PAIN WITH WESTERN AND CHINESE MEDICINE

Du Zhong (Cortex Eucommiae), chao (dry-fried) with ginger juice 120g [12g]
Dang Gui (Radix Angelicae Sinensis) 90g [9g]

EXPLANATION
You Gui Wan (Restore the Right [Kidney] Pill) treats Kidney yang deficiency with diminished ming
men (life gate) fire. As the source of yang, when ming men (life gate) fire diminishes, the entire
body will be affected. When Kidney yang is deficient, it is unable to warm thebody, resulting in
aversion to cold and cold extremities. Kidney yang deficiency may lead to Spleen and Stomach
yang deficiencies, resulting in low energy, lethargy and
loose stools with undigested food. In males, Kidney yang deficiency often leads to sexual and
reproductive disorders, such as impotence, premature ejaculation, seminal emissions, and low
sperm count. Kidney yang deficiency can affect urinary function and cause urinary disorders,
such as urinary incontinence. It can also impair the body’s ability to regulate water metabolism,
giving rise to edema of the lower legs and loose stools. Because the Kidney resides in the low
back area, Kidney deficiency may cause weakness of the lower back and knees. Chronic illness
may consume the yang qi of the body, causing low energy and lethargy.

Rou Gui (Cortex Cinnamomi) and Fu Zi (Radix Aconiti Lateralis Praeparata) warm Kidney yang
and raise ming men (life gate) fire. According to the yin-yang theory of mutual dependence, in
order to effectively tonify Kidney yang, Kidney yin must also be nourished. Thus, this formula
uses Shu Di Huang (Radix Rehmanniae Praeparata), Shan Zhu Yu (Fructus Corni), Shan Yao
(Rhizoma Dioscoreae), and Gou Qi Zi (Fructus Lycii) to nourish Kidney yin and replenish jing
(essence). Lu Jiao Jiao (Colla Cornus Cervi), Tu Si Zi (Semen Cuscutae), and Du Zhong (Cortex
Eucommiae) warm Kidney yang, replenish jing, and tonify the Liver and Kidney to strengthen the
bones and tendons. Dang Gui (Radix Angelicae Sinensis) tonifies the blood and nourishes the
Liver.

CAUTIONS / CONTRAINDICATIONS
• You Gui Wan is contraindicated in cases of Kidney deficiency and damp accumulation.
• Avoid cold and raw foods while taking this formula.

PHARMACOLOGICAL EFFECTS
1. Immunostimulant: In one experiment, daily administration of the formula at 30 g/kg orally for 5
days was associated with increased phagocytic activity of the macrophages in mice

2. Adaptogenic: Use of You Gui Wan was associated with improved physical performance in
various laboratory studies. In one study, oral administration of the formula at 20-30 g/kg for 5
days increased the duration of swimming in mice (P<0.01).

3. Cognitive: One study reported improved cognition (improved memory and decreased
repetition of errors) in mice that were administered You Gui Wan at 30 g/kg and 20 g/kg (dose
;

TREATING LOW BACK PAIN WITH WESTERN AND CHINESE MEDICINE

based on dried herbs) for 5 days.

4. Antiplatelet: In one study, oral administration of the formula at 20 g/kg for 5 days was
associated with a mild
antiplatelet effect.

5. Hepatoprotective: In a laboratory experiment, oral administration of the formula at 20-30 g/kg

for 5 days was effective in protecting against liver damage induced by injection of 0.1% carbon
tetrachloride.

Zuo Gui Wan (Restore the Left [Kidney] Pill)

Shu Di Huang (Radix Rehmanniae Praeparata) 240g [24g]

Gou Qi Zi (Fructus Lycii) 120g [12g]
Shan Zhu Yu (Fructus Corni) 120g [12g]
Gui Ban Jiao (Gelatinum Plastrum Testudinis), chao (dry-fried) 120g [12g]
Lu Jiao Jiao (Colla Cornus Cervi), chao (dry-fried) 120g [12g]
Tu Si Zi (Semen Cuscutae), zhi (prepared) 120g [12g]
Chuan Niu Xi (Radix Cyathulae), xi (washed) with liquor and zheng (steamed) 90g [9g]
Shan Yao (Rhizoma Dioscoreae), chao (dry-fried) 120g [12g]

EXPLANATION
Zuo Gui Wan (Restore the Left [Kidney] Pill) is designed to tonify Kidney yin and replenish
marrow and jing(essence). Because the brain is the sea of marrow, marrow deficiency may result
in dizziness and vertigo. Kidney deficiency often causes deficiency of the lower body, leading to
weak knees and sore back. Night and spontaneous sweating occur as deficiency heat forces
body fluids outward, while a dry mouth and throat and thirst indicate general yin deficiency and
insufficiency of body fluids.

Seminal emissions and/or spermatorrhea are the result of deficiency fire causing the jing to leak
out. A mirror-like tongue surface with little coating indicates severe yin deficiency. A fine pulse is
a typical sign of yin deficiency.

This formula contains Shu Di Huang (Radix Rehmanniae Praeparata) to tonify the Kidney,
nourish yin and replenish jing (essence). Gou Qi Zi (Fructus Lycii) nourishes the Liver, tonifies the
Kidney, and improves vision. Shan Zhu Yu (Fructus Corni) has a sour taste, and astringes yin
and body fluids to prevent further loss. Gui Ban Jiao (Gelatinum Plastrum Testudinis) and Lu Jiao
Jiao (Colla Cornus Cervi) are two animal substances that have a very strong effect in nourishing
the Kidney and tonifying the yin, yang and jing (essence). Tu Si Zi (Semen Cuscutae) combines
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TREATING LOW BACK PAIN WITH WESTERN AND CHINESE MEDICINE

with Chuan Niu Xi (Radix Cyathulae) to tonify the Kidney and strengthen the lower body to relieve
sore low back and weak knees. Shan Yao (Rhizoma Dioscoreae) tonifies the Kidney and
strengthens the Spleen.

CAUTIONS / CONTRAINDICATIONS
• Zuo Gui Wan mostly consists of stagnating herbs that could produce dampness inside the body,
causing symptoms such as an uncomfortable sensation in the epigastrium, indigestion, and poor
appetite. For patients with Spleen qi deficiency, qi-activating herbs such as Sha Ren (Fructus
Amomi) and Chen Pi (Pericarpium Citri Reticulatae) can be added to prevent damp accumulation.
• This formula is not recommended for prolonged use, since most of the herbs are yin tonics that
are stagnating in nature, and may impair Spleen and Stomach functions and cause diarrhea or
loose stools. Liu Wei Di Huang Wan (Six-Ingredient Pill with Rehmannia) is a more balanced and
more suitable yin tonic for long-term use.

PHARMACOLOGICAL EFFECTS
Reproductive: Administration of Zuo Gui Wan in male mice had a dose-dependent effect to
increase plasma testosterone levels and weight of the testicles.

Huan Shao Dan (Return to Youth Pill)

Rou Cong Rong (Herba Cistanches) 30g

Ba Ji Tian (Radix Morindae Officinalis) 30g
Xiao Hui Xiang (Fructus Foeniculi) 30g
Shu Di Huang (Radix Rehmanniae Praeparata) 15g
Shan Zhu Yu (Fructus Corni), jin (soaked) in liquor for 1 night and bei (stone-baked) 30g
Gou Qi Zi (Fructus Lycii) 15g
Du Zhong (Cortex Eucommiae), zhi (fried) with liquor and the juice of fresh ginger 30g
Chuan Niu Xi (Radix Cyathulae), jin (soaked) in liquor for 1 night and bei (stone-baked) 45g
Fu Ling (Poria) 30g
Shan Yao (Rhizoma Dioscoreae) 45g
Wu Wei Zi (Fructus Schisandrae Chinensis) 30g
Yuan Zhi (Radix Polygalae) 30g
Shi Chang Pu (Rhizoma Acori Tatarinowii) 30g
Da Zao (Fructus Jujubae) 15g
Chu Shi Zi (Fructus Broussonetiae) 30g

EXPLANATION
Huan Shao Dan (Return to Youth Pill) treats premature aging in both men and women.
Premature aging is commonly caused by excessive consumption of qi, blood, yang and jing
(essence) with underlying deficiencies of the Spleen, Stomach, Heart and Kidney. Spleen and
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TREATING LOW BACK PAIN WITH WESTERN AND CHINESE MEDICINE

Stomach deficiencies result in an inadequate supply of qi, which manifests in symptoms such as
generalized weakness, fatigue, and anorexia. Deficiencies of blood and Heart may lead to
forgetfulness, being easily frightened, low-grade fever, and night sweats. Lastly, lack of jing is
often accompanied by Kidney yang deficiency, leading to decreased libido, seminal emissions,
and other sexual disorders.

Rou Cong Rong (Herba Cistanches), Ba Ji Tian (Radix Morindae Officinalis), and Xiao Hui Xiang
(Fructus Foeniculi) strengthen Spleen qi and Kidney yang. Shu Di Huang (Radix Rehmanniae
Praeparata), Shan Zhu Yu(Fructus Corni) and Gou Qi Zi (Fructus Lycii) nourish the Kidney and
benefit qi. Du Zhong (Cortex Eucommiae) and Chuan Niu Xi (Radix Cyathulae) tonify the Kidney
and strengthen the knees and lower back. Fu Ling (Poria) and Shan Yao (Rhizoma Dioscoreae)
strengthen the Spleen and dissolve dampness. Wu Wei Zi (Fructus Schisandrae Chinensis)
reduces the loss of fluids from the Kidney, namely seminal emissions. Yuan Zhi (Radix
Polygalae) tonifies the Heart and calms the shen (spirit).

Shi Chang Pu (Rhizoma Acori Tatarinowii) opens the sensory orifices and improves mental
functions. Da Zao (Fructus Jujubae) tonifies qi and blood, and strengthens the Lung and Spleen.
Chu Shi Zi (Fructus Broussonetiae) warms and tonifies yang to strengthen the muscles and
bones. Taking the formula with salted water allows the salt to function as a channel-guiding
substance to the Kidney, to enhance the Kidney tonifying effect of this formula.

CAUTIONS / CONTRAINDICATIONS
• According to one report, use of Huan Shao Dan continuously for one month was associated
with occasional side
effects such as a dry mouth, constipation, and a feeling of warmth in the body. These reactions
are self-limiting, and will resolve within 2 to 3 weeks.
• Use of this formula is contraindicated during pregnancy.

NUTRITION
 Eat a diet with a wide variety of raw vegetables and fruits, and whole grain cereals to
ensure a complete supply of nutrients for the bones, nerves, and muscles.
 Adequate intake of calcium is essential for the repair and rebuilding of bones, tendons,
cartilage, and connective tissues.
 Fresh pineapples are recommended as they contain bromelain, an enzyme that is
excellent in reducing inflammation. If the consumption of fresh pineapples causes
stomach upset, eat it after meals.
 To relieve cramps and spasms, eat plenty of fruits and vegetables, especially those high
in potassium, such as bananas and oranges. Also drink an adequate amount of warm
water.
 Adequate intake of minerals, such as calcium and potassium, is essential for pain
;

TREATING LOW BACK PAIN WITH WESTERN AND CHINESE MEDICINE

management. Deficiency of these minerals will lead to spasms, cramps, and tense
muscles.
 Avoid red meat and seafood in the diet as they contain high levels of uric acid, which puts
added strain on the kidneys.
 Avoid cold beverages, ice cream, caffeine, sugar, tomatoes, milk, and dairy products.
 The following is a folk remedy to treat acute back pain from sprain and strain. Crack open
2 crabs (ocean) with a wooden stick (do not use a knife or any metal instruments) and put
them into a clay pot with enough vodka or whiskey to cover both crabs. Place the clay pot
into another larger pot with water, and steam it for one hour. Serve the crab meat along
with the liquor soup.

LIFESTYLE INSTRUCTIONS
 Patients are advised to use their legs (instead of bending from the waist or back) when
lifting heavy objects.
 Patients are encouraged to wear clothing that covers their backs completely and to tuck
their shirts into their pants or skirts to avoid any wind exposure to their backs, which will
further aggravate the condition.
 Stretching and strengthening exercises for the back muscles are essential for long-term
recovery. Strengthening the abdominal muscles is also beneficial to reduce strain on the
lower back.
 Mild exercise such as swimming, yoga, or tai chi chuan [tai ji quan] on a regular basis is
recommended.
 For those who are overweight, weight loss is strongly recommended to decrease pressure
on the joints and relieve pain.
 Proper balance of work and rest is very important. While sitting, make sure the back is
straight and the elbows and knees are bent at a 90° angle. Take a break at least once
every hour to alleviate pressure on the vertebrae and disks.
 Finally, adequate rest is essential to recovery. It is wise to review the sleeping postures to
ensure that the back is being appropriately supported and relaxed.
 Hot baths with Ai Ye (Folium Artemisiae Argyi) or Epsom salts help to relax tense
muscles, invigorate blood flow and draw toxins from tissues. Rest and relax in the bath for
about 15 to 30 minutes, but avoid becoming over-tired from the heat and soaking. Mix
about 2 to 3 tablespoons of Ai Ye (Folium Artemisiae Argyi) extract powder in the hot
water each time.
 Firm beds are recommended over soft ones for patients with back pain.
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TREATING LOW BACK PAIN WITH WESTERN AND CHINESE MEDICINE

About the Author

Dr. John Chen, L.Ac., D.O.M., Ph.D., Pharm.D.
Dr. John Chen is a recognized authority in both western pharmacology and Chinese Herbal
Medicine, having combined formal training in both fields with extensive research ‘on the ground’
in China. He has taught at the USC School of Pharmacy, Emperor’s College, Yo San University
of TCM, OCOM, Five Branches, AOMA and ACTCM, and has taught numerous professional
seminars across the U.S. and internationally. Dr. Chen’s published works include Chinese
Medical Herbology and Pharmacology (2003, AOM Press) and Chinese Herbal Formulas and
Applications (2008, AOM Press) for which works he is the lead author.
For more courses available by the author, visit www.elotus.org

References

"Back pain." Mayo Clinic. N.p., n.d. Web. 10 Feb. 2017.

Chen, John K., and Tina T. Chen. Chinese herbal formulas and applications: pharmacological
effects & clinical research. City of Industry, CA: Art of Medicine Press, 2009. Print.

Clinical Manual of Oriental Medicine. 3rd ed. City of Industry: Lotus Institute of Integrative
Medicine, 2016. Print.

Legge, David. Close to the Bone. 3rd ed. Woy Woy: Sydney College Press, 2011. Print.

"Low Back Pain-Cause." WebMD. WebMD, n.d. Web. 10 Aug. 2016

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