Hernia

A hernia is defined when an organ or fatty tissue squeezes through a weak spot in a surrounding muscle or connective tissue called fascia. Hernias can occur in several places, typically in the stomach or intestine. Other common locations include the inner groin (inguinal), outer groin (femoral), or from an incision point (incisional).

Through a Western lens, it is stated that hernias can be a result of lifting heavy objects, diarrhea, constipation, obesity, poor diet, and smoking. Symptoms can be nothing at all or include muscle pain, swelling, and an actual bulge. Treatments can be as severe as surgery.

In TICM, hernia's tend to begin on an internal level and then become further exacerbated by an external factor. TICM believes that hernias are related to organs that are not vital or strong enough. Subsequently, these muscles, tissues, or organs, become loose, falling down to the below cavity or breaking through muscles or walls that used to be supportive. Those areas have also become weak or loose.

Hernias are a complicated condition that have likely developed over a long period of time due to a variety of factors that can include: emotional distress, weak constitution, vital energy (Qi) stagnation, and pathogens like Dampness and or Cold. It is likely that a few factors play a role for the individual. External factors can also play a role over time, such as over-exertion, over-exercise, and previous incisions.

Depending on the location of the hernia, it can show the rooted imbalance and how best to treat it.

The Liver plays a big role as it manages energy (Qi) and Blood that are usually stagnated and can't get to the weakened area to help, resulting in weak muscles. Liver Recharge helps to invigorate energy (Qi), Blood, and overall circulation.

The Spleen governs the muscles and the tissue. A weak Spleen and Stomach can absolutely result in a hernia. Formulas such as Vitality and Spleen Recharge help to invigorate overall muscle and tissue health, while supporting proper Spleen and Stomach function and combating fatigue, Cold and Dampness.

Astragalus (Huang Qi) helps to boost vital energy (Qi) and Blood, Spleen function, and fatigue. This herb also helps to remove Dampness and Cold and boost Yang (warm energy).