What causes pain in the Fengchi acupoints on both sides?
Jun 06, 2023
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. He Haochen
Introduction
In general, pain in the bilateral Fengchi (GB20) acupoints may be caused by factors such as sleep deprivation, neck strain, or greater occipital neuralgia. Additionally, invasion of external wind, bi syndrome (painful obstruction syndrome), and cerebral vascular spasm may also lead to pain in both Fengchi points. Patients are advised to seek timely medical evaluation at a hospital to determine the exact cause and receive appropriate treatment under a doctor's guidance. The Fengchi acupoints are located in the two depressions just below the occipital bone.
Generally, pain in the bilateral Fengchi acupoints may be caused by factors such as sleep deprivation, neck strain, or greater occipital neuralgia. A detailed analysis is as follows:
1. Sleep Deprivation
The Fengchi acupoints are located in the two depressions directly below the occipital bone. Prolonged lack of sleep may lead to cerebral ischemia and hypoxia, which can cause distending pain in the Fengchi acupoints. In such cases, getting adequate rest usually helps relieve the discomfort.
2. Neck Strain
If there has been recent strenuous activity or overexertion—such as prolonged desk work—it may easily lead to stagnation of qi and blood in the meridians of the neck and shoulder area. According to traditional Chinese medicine, "stagnation leads to pain," which may manifest as pain in the Fengchi acupoints. This type of pain can often be relieved through massage or heat application.
3. Greater Occipital Neuralgia
In patients with greater occipital neuralgia, the greater occipital nerve may be repeatedly irritated or compressed, causing pain in the region it innervates. Since the Fengchi acupoint lies within this distribution area, its pain should raise suspicion for greater occipital neuralgia. Treatment under medical guidance may include medications such as vitamin B12 tablets or carbamazepine tablets. Additionally, acupuncture, massage, or traction may help alleviate symptoms.
Furthermore, invasion by wind pathogens, bi syndrome (painful obstruction syndrome), cerebral vascular spasm, and other conditions may also cause bilateral Fengchi acupoint pain. Patients are advised to seek timely medical evaluation at a hospital to determine the exact cause and receive appropriate treatment under professional guidance.
