The first stage, known as the energetic phase, presents subtle signs that may not yet be considered symptoms of illness. People may experience unexplained fatigue, emotional fluctuations, or difficulty sleeping — indicating a disturbance in the body’s vital energy, or Qi. At this stage, conventional medical tests often show no abnormalities, yet the person already feels out of balance.
TCM sees this as an opportunity for early intervention. Acupuncture, dietary changes, and Qi Gong help restore the smooth flow of energy, preventing minor disharmonies from becoming more serious. Research published in the Journal of Acupuncture and Meridian Studies has shown that acupuncture regulates bodily functions — reinforcing its role in prevention. Addressing imbalances early can help maintain long-term well-being.
If the energetic imbalance is not corrected, it progresses to the functional phase, where organ function becomes affected. Symptoms such as irregular digestion, muscle tension, or menstrual cycle disruptions may appear, though medical tests still show no structural abnormalities. At this point, the body is struggling to maintain harmony, and without intervention, the condition may worsen.
TCM treats this stage with herbal medicine and more intensive acupuncture techniques to restore internal balance. This approach is particularly effective for conditions such as hormonal imbalances, digestive disorders, and stress-related syndromes like irritable bowel syndrome. By addressing functional disruptions early, it is possible to prevent the progression to more severe health issues.
If the imbalance persists, the illness enters the anatomical phase, where structural damage becomes apparent. Chronic inflammation, osteoarthritis, or the formation of nodules are common manifestations. Symptoms are persistent and often require a combination of treatments to manage effectively.
While TCM continues to play a role in this stage, it does not replace conventional medical treatments. Instead, it works alongside biomedicine, offering complementary therapies that enhance pain relief, improve circulation, and support overall well-being. Electroacupuncture, for example, has been shown to stimulate nerve function and modulate pain perception — making it a valuable tool for managing chronic conditions. The World Health Organisation recognises acupuncture’s analgesic properties, highlighting its role in symptom relief. However, acute conditions such as fractures and infections require immediate biomedical intervention.
This three-stage model in TCM reflects a holistic understanding of the body as a dynamic system, constantly adapting to its environment. Unlike conventional medicine, which often focuses on treating diseases after they become structurally evident, TCM emphasises early detection and intervention. By recognising subtle signs of imbalance, it is possible to prevent minor disruptions from developing into serious health problems. As the Daoist philosopher Laozi said, “Deal with a problem before it arises. Take action before it becomes unavoidable.” This wisdom aligns with TCM’s preventive approach, which seeks to restore balance before illness takes hold.
Medical acupuncture, when incorporating TCM principles, does not stand in opposition to Western medicine. Instead, it expands the understanding of health by integrating physical, mental, and environmental factors. This integrative approach is particularly relevant today, as chronic diseases become increasingly common due to stress, poor diet, and sedentary lifestyles.
By prioritising prevention and restoring balance before disease takes hold, TCM offers a proactive path to long-term well-being. In a world where many seek alternatives to symptom-focused treatments, this perspective provides a more comprehensive and sustainable approach to health — ensuring that minor imbalances are addressed before they develop into major medical conditions.
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