28/10/2025
A male client in his 30s presented with severe lower back pain, absent of any surgical history, injury, or structural spinal issues.
Upon assessment, key lifestyle factors were identified:
He consumed 15 cups of coffee daily to curb nicotine cravings.
He avoided drinking plain water.
His diet was devoid of vegetables.
His clinical manifestations included:
Irregular bowel movements with a tendency toward diarrhea.
A pale facial complexion.
Low blood pressure.
TCM Pattern Differentiation (辨证):
His tongue presentation was critical for diagnosis:
A red tongue body with red points signifies Internal Heat and Dryness.
A narrow tongue root specifically indicates Kidney Yin Deficiency.
(Comprehensive Diagnosis):
The primary underlying pattern was identified as Severe Yin Deficiency (阴虚), particularly of the Kidneys (肾阴虚). The back pain is a classic symptom of Kidney deficiency, as the Kidneys govern the lower back and bones in TCM.
The coffee (a heating, drying substance) consumed in excess severely damaged his Body Fluids and Yin, creating Deficient Heat. This explains the red tongue. The Spleen and Stomach (governed by diet) were also impaired, leading to poor digestion (diarrhea, pale face, low blood pressure) and an inability to generate new Yin and Blood.
(After Treatment):
Following a course of treatment aimed at nourishing Yin, clearing Deficient Heat, and strengthening the Kidneys, his tongue returned to a normal, healthy color, and his lower back pain significantly improved. This indicates a restoration of balance and a reduction of the pathological heat and dryness.
