Why Leg Swelling Is Like a Traffic Jam in Your Body

"Holistic treatment for swollen legs in Caulo Care Forest Hills, Queens – combining acupuncture, herbal remedies, and modern medical insights at Caulo Care Acupuncture."

By Dr. Phumlarp Caulo – Caulo Care Acupuncture, Forest Hills, New York

Introduction

Leg swelling is a common concern among patients in New York, from busy workers standing long hours to elders dealing with chronic health conditions. While swelling may seem minor, it can signal deeper imbalances in circulation, posture, or internal organ function.

At Caulo Care Acupuncture, we look at leg swelling through both modern medical understanding and Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), offering patients a complete approach to diagnosis and healing.

Causes in Western Medicine

1. Cardiovascular Issues

   • Heart failure or venous insufficiency causes fluid to pool in the lower limbs.

   • Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) can lead to sudden, painful swelling.

2. Kidney and Liver Conditions

   • Impaired kidney function reduces fluid clearance.

   • Liver cirrhosis leads to low protein levels, reducing plasma osmotic pressure and causing edema.

3. Lymphatic Blockage

   • Lymphedema results from blocked lymph channels, often after surgery, infection, or cancer treatment.

4. Posture and Circulation

   • Prolonged sitting or standing reduces venous return from the legs.

   • Poor posture compresses veins and lymph vessels, leading to swelling.

5. Other Causes

   • Pregnancy, obesity, injuries, or certain medications (e.g., calcium channel blockers, NSAIDs, steroids).

Causes in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM)

1. Spleen Qi Deficiency

   • The Spleen governs the transformation and transportation of fluids. Weak Spleen Qi causes dampness and swelling in the lower limbs.

2. Kidney Yang Deficiency

   • The Kidneys control water metabolism. Weak Kidney Yang leads to fluid retention and edema, especially in older adults.

3. Liver Qi Stagnation

   • Emotional stress or stagnation of Liver Qi obstructs fluid circulation, creating swelling.

4. External Dampness or Cold Invasion

   • Living or working in damp/cold environments can cause fluid accumulation in the legs.

Anatomy & Physiology (A&P) and Posture Connection

• Veins and Muscle Pump: Calf muscles act as a “second heart,” pushing blood upward. Weakness or inactivity reduces circulation.

• Spinal Alignment: Lumbar spine misalignment or nerve compression affects vascular and lymphatic flow.

• Fascia and Pressure: Tight fascia or poor ergonomic posture increases compartmental pressure, limiting drainage.

Treatment Approaches

Western Medicine

• Lifestyle: Elevating legs, compression stockings, regular exercise.

• Medications: Diuretics for heart/kidney conditions, anticoagulants for DVT, and anti-hypertensives.

• Medical Intervention: Surgery, stents, or lymphatic drainage therapy if needed.

Traditional Chinese Medicine

• Acupuncture: Points such as SP9 (Yinlingquan), KI7 (Fuliu), and ST36 (Zusanli) regulate fluid metabolism.

• Cupping & Gua Sha: Stimulate circulation and reduce stagnation.

• Herbal Medicine:

  • Wu Ling San (Five-Ingredient Powder with Poria): Promotes urination and resolves dampness.

  • Zhen Wu Tang (True Warrior Decoction): Warms Kidney Yang and resolves water retention.

  • Local herbs like corn silk tea and dandelion root support mild diuresis.

Prevention & Self-Care

1. Daily Movement – Walking, ankle pumps, or stretching every hour.

2. Healthy Posture – Avoid sitting cross-legged too long, keep spine neutral.

3. Hydration & Diet – Limit excess salt, processed foods, and alcohol; eat potassium-rich fruits and vegetables.

4. Weight & Stress Management – Maintain a healthy weight, use breathing and relaxation techniques.

5. Regular Acupuncture & Massage – Prevents recurrence by addressing root imbalances.

Conclusion

Leg swelling is not just a cosmetic issue—it reflects how your heart, kidneys, liver, posture, and daily lifestyle work together. At Caulo Care Acupuncture in Forest Hills, we help patients uncover the root causes using both modern diagnostics and TCM wisdom. With acupuncture, herbs, and lifestyle coaching, leg swelling can be reduced, circulation restored, and long-term health improved.

“The journey of Qi and blood in the body is like cars traveling on a busy road. When the flow is smooth, everything functions well. But if there’s a blockage—like a traffic jam—circulation slows down, leading to swelling or inflammation in the arms and legs.”

This information is only educational and should not be construed as medical advice.

Everything must be balanced, and the suggestions may not apply to you.

A specialist doctor should be consulted for any medical advice or diagnosis.

BOOK AN APPOINTMENT NOW!

Acupuncture near me at Forest Hill, NY

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Dr. Phumlarp Caulo LA,c, MAc. OM, DAHM

Doctor of Acupuncture/Chinese Medicine

Caulo Care Acupuncture

🔖 By appointment only

📧 bookingcaulocare@gmail.com

☎️+1 (929) 269-4549

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