Tendon pain can strike in any season, and each for different reasons. With spring ahead, we’re focusing on the main reasons active individuals are likely to struggle with tendon pain in the coming months even if they’ve been active all winter.
With spring comes more intense and frequent workouts, training outside (and often on uneven surfaces) and unusual movements (like bending, reaching and hauling supplies for the garden). Tendons take a hit. Thankfully, we’ve got tips to help.
In our latest blog, we break down why spring tendon injuries happen, who's most vulnerable, and how to treat and prevent them naturally – including a peek at the new Plum Dragon Tendonitis Recovery Kit.
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In TCM, spring is all about the Liver. This is the organ system responsible for the smooth flow of Qi and blood throughout the body (as well as common Western medicine tasks like detoxification and storing blood).
In spring, the Liver is called on to get things moving again after a restful winter. But there’s a transition period, and that’s where issues arise. The most common is Qi and blood stagnation which can affect everything from how well you move to how strong your immune system is to your mood balance.
Movement is the best remedy for most spring woes. Here's where you'll notice it most:
The Liver controls the tendons and connective tissue in TCM. That’s why in spring, when the Liver is working overtime, it’s common to experience tendon flare-ups, joint stiffness and injuries that seem to come out of nowhere. Consistent movement helps the Liver work smoothly and keeps Qi and blood circulating to the tendons and joints for joint pain relief and better performance.
Plum Dragon Pro Tip: Apply a supportive, circulating liniment (like Tendonitis Liniment or Flexibility Liniment) before training to help prepare sore areas for activity. Then, nourish connective tissue and reduce inflammation from within with Tendonitis Tonic.
Along with moving physical energy, the Liver is responsible for the smooth flow of emotional energy, too. When Liver Qi gets stuck, it tends to rise upward, bringing tension headaches, irritability, frustration and restlessness. If you notice you're more irritable or headache-prone in spring, stagnating Liver qi could be a hidden culprit. Gentle, consistent exercise moves Liver Qi and gives that pent-up energy somewhere to go. Pair whole-body exercises that include flexibility (like yoga or Qigong) with qi-moving cardio workouts like a jog or even a long walk.
Plum Dragon Pro Tip: Flexibili-Tea Herb Pack includes herbs that nourish the Liver, tendons and smooth the flow of Qi. This works on two levels: actual flexibility in the musculoskeletal system and emotional flexibility for stress relief and mood balance.
Fall and winter are often seen as the “immune-boost seasons.” But spring brings its own host of immune troubles. Spring allergies, irritating skin flares and general inflammation can pop up this time of year thanks to a congested Liver system and “pathogenic wind.” Wind in TCM is a disruptive force that can wear down your immunity, make you more susceptible to allergens, cause skin itching and rashes and even trigger joint pain. Daily movement is proven to boost the immune system and supports the Liver system in regular detox and Qi flow.
Plum Dragon Pro Tip: The best way to boost your immunity is consistent, daily support. Our Immune Support Kit makes taking care of yourself before issues arise easy with a daily tincture, Immuni-tea blend and herbal broth kit.
Acupressure is one of the simplest tools in the TCM toolkit (no needles required!). These three points work specifically to support the Liver, move stagnant Qi and blood and relieve the most common spring complaints.
Massage each point in small circles 2-3 times each for 30–60 seconds daily, or after training.
On the outer lower leg, in the depression just below and in front of the bony bump at the top of the fibula (the outer knee area).
GB 34 is the “master point” for all tendons and sinews in the body. If you’re struggling with tendon pain, tendonitis or simply feeling stiff, this is a go-to point. Press this point before your workouts to activate your tendons and direct blood flow to them. Use it after a workout for recovery support, especially if you struggle with knee or lower limb tightness.
Find this one on the top of the foot, in the depression between the first and second toe, about two finger-widths back from the webbing. If GB 34 is the master point for the tendons, LV 3 is the master point for the whole Liver system. It smooths qi, nourishes the Liver, relieves headaches and PMS and balances your mood. Heads up: it can be surprisingly tender! If so, that’s a good sign your Liver needs some support.
On the back of the hand, in the middle of the fleshy webbing between the thumb and index finger. LI 4 is one of the most commonly used acupressure points because it has a wide range of uses. In spring, this point is particularly helpful for easing tension or sinus headaches, reducing nasal congestion, boosting immunity and supporting overall circulation. Note: Because LI 4 has a strong moving effect, don’t use this point if you’re pregnant.
When spring’s fresh air beckons you outside, joint pain and stiffness that keep you stuck is even more irritating. The good news is that herbal medicine is a powerful ally when it comes to tendonitis, and with the right support you get right back to action.
If you’re dealing with tendon pain, joint stiffness or overuse injuries this spring, this package offers a complete natural tendonitis treatment. It combines a topical dit dat jow designed for tendon pain relief and an internal tincture to restore resilience from within. Let’s take a closer look at what’s included:
Tendonitis Liniment (External)
This formula gets to work on the painful tendon directly, with herbs like Frankincense and Myrrh to reduce inflammation and move blood stasis, Safflower to drive circulation into tissue that heals slowly and Drynaria to support structural repair at the tendon and bone level. Apply it to the affected area two to three times daily, massaging it in firmly to encourage absorption and blood flow.
Tendonitis Tonic (Internal)
The internal tincture addresses the root by nourishing Liver blood, strengthening connective tissue, and supporting the body's repair process from within. Yan Hu Suo moves Qi and blood stagnation for potent natural pain relief, Eucommia strengthens tendons and joints over time, and Tienchi supports tissue repair and reduces swelling after acute injury. Take it consistently for best results as these herbs have a cumulative effect.
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Bone broth was a healing staple in traditional medical systems like TCM long before it became one of the fastest-growing wellness trends. Ancient cultures used it to restore vitality and strength. Modern research shows why: it is nutrient-rich and high in collagen which supports the bones, joints, tendons, skin, gut and blood vessels.
For a spring bone broth that supports your tendons, opt for chicken bones. They’re higher in type II collagen which is particularly good for cartilage, joint and bone health. Beef bones are great too, but better for skin and cardiovascular support.
Take it one step further by simmering Plum Dragon's Flexibili-Tea herb pack directly into the broth. The herbal blend is formulated to support joint flexibility, reduce stiffness and nourish the tendons from within. It infuses these benefits into the broth as it cooks to make it even more powerful.
Once you’ve brewed your broth, use it as the base for soups and stews, for cooking grains or sip it warm on its own before or after training.
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Kate Downes is a Chinese medicine practitioner (MSAOM, NCCAOM, Dipl.OM) and wellness writer. Through her educational content for Plum Dragon Herbs, Kate hopes to help others gain a better understanding of the wonders of Chinese herbal medicine so they can be empowered in their own quest for natural, vibrant health.
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