Qi Sinking

Qi Sinking represents a pathological descent of qi due to deficiency of the Middle Jiao, primarily involving Spleen qi xu leading to loss of the ascending and lifting functions. The pathomechanism centers on Spleen qi's inability to maintain the normal upward movement of qi, resulting in visceral prolapse and characteristic downward sensations. This pattern frequently develops from chronic digestive weakness, overexertion, or excessive mental strain that depletes the Middle Jiao's transformative capacity.

Clinical Presentation

Bearing down sensation in abdomen or pelvis
Visceral prolapse (uterine, rectal, gastric, or bladder)
Chronic diarrhea or loose stools
Mental and physical fatigue with desire to lie down
Shortness of breath, worse with exertion
Dizziness or vertigo when standing
Weak voice or disinclination to speak
Abdominal distention after eating
Tongue: Pale, swollen with teeth marks
Pulse: Weak, especially in the right middle position

Pattern Differentiation

vs. Spleen Qi Xu (without sinking)

Lacks the characteristic bearing down sensation and visceral prolapse. Fatigue and digestive symptoms present but without the downward movement pathology. Pulse weak but not necessarily sinking quality.

vs. Kidney Yang Xu

Prolapse symptoms may be present but accompanied by cold limbs, lumbar soreness, and sexual dysfunction. Pulse is deep and slow rather than just weak. Tongue is pale and wet rather than simply pale with tooth marks.

vs. Liver Qi Stagnation with downbearing

Bearing down sensation occurs with emotional triggers and is accompanied by irritability, breast distention, and irregular menstruation. Pulse is wiry rather than weak. Symptoms fluctuate with stress levels.

Treatment Principle

Supplement the Middle Jiao and lift sunken qi. Primary actions include tonifying Spleen qi, strengthening the lifting function of qi, and supporting the upward movement of clear yang.

Formulas for Qi Sinking in Our Catalog

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Related Patterns

Frequently Asked Questions

Qi sinking requires specific lifting points like GV20 (Baihui) and ST6 (Jiache) with upward needle direction, plus GV1 (Changqiang) for prolapse. Standard Spleen tonification points like ST36 and SP3 are insufficient without the lifting component.

For uterine prolapse, add Sheng Ma and Chai Hu with increased dosage. For rectal prolapse, emphasize Huang Qi and add Wu Wei Zi. For gastric prolapse, increase Bai Zhu and add Chen Pi. The base formula remains centered on lifting Middle Jiao qi.

Yes, Kidney qi xu can cause sinking, particularly affecting urogenital prolapse with more pronounced lumbar weakness. Lung qi xu may cause sinking with respiratory symptoms predominating. However, Middle Jiao involvement is nearly always present as a secondary pattern.

Avoid heavy lifting and prolonged standing. Elevate the pelvis during rest periods. Practice specific qigong exercises that emphasize lifting qi, such as holding the sky posture. Dietary therapy should emphasize warming, easily digestible foods that support Spleen function.

Professional Reference Disclaimer

This page is provided by Acu-Market (Medical Technology Products, Inc.) as an educational reference for licensed acupuncturists and traditional Chinese medicine practitioners. It is not medical advice and is not intended for use by the general public.

The clinical information on this page is a general summary compiled from traditional Chinese medicine sources and is provided for reference only. It is not exhaustive, may contain errors or omissions, and may not reflect the most current clinical research or guidance. Acu-Market makes no representations or warranties of any kind, express or implied, regarding the accuracy, completeness, reliability, suitability, or availability of this information.

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