As explained below, from a Western perspective, masses can be due to many different
pathologies: enlarged organs, cysts, myomas ("fibroids"), spastic colon, masses of faeces and
malignant tumours. The treatment and prognosis in each of these cases will obviously differ
enormously. Furthermore, in addition to the above types of masses, one should add those that are
non-substantial, i.e. due to Qi stagnation.
First of all, to make a prognosis from a Chinese perspective, we must differentiate between
masses due to Qi and masses due to Blood accumulation: Qi masses are much easier to disperse
than Blood masses. Acupuncture can be used to disperse Qi masses but Blood masses can be
dispersed only with herbal medicine.
From a Western perspective, to mention the most common causes of masses, those due to a
spasm in the colon or masses of faeces are the easiest to resolve. Ovarian cysts and uterine
myomas can be dispersed only if they are very small (not more than 2 cm in diameter). There are
three types of myomas: subserous (on the outside wall of the uterus), interstitial (within the wall
of the uterus) and submucous (on the inside of the uterus). The interstitial myomas are the easiest
(or better, the least difficult) to disperse.
Malignant tumours of the abdomen can also be treated with Chinese herbs and the prognosis
varies according to the organ involved and the stage of the carcinoma: however, the
differentiation and treatment outlined in this chapter do not apply to malignant tumours as their
treatment needs a different approach. Of all malignant tumours, lymphomas respond best to
treatment with Chinese herbs.
Finally, masses due to enlargement of organs can be dispersed by a combination of both
acupuncture and herbs. In all the above cases, treatment will necessarily take a long time and
patience is required from both the practitioner and the patient.
As for prevention, any patient who is prone to abdominal masses or has been cured of one should
follow certain precautions. First of all, they should avoid the excessive consumption of
cold-energy foods and especially cold drinks as these tend to lead to stasis in the lower abodmen.
This is an important recommendation especially in countries such as the USA where people tend
to consume large quantities of iced drinks. Women should pay particular care during the
menstrual period and after childbirth: at these times, they should carefully avoid exposure to cold
or dampness (for example, wearing a wet swimming suit on a windy beach, sitting on damp
grass, etc.). Women who practise meditation concentrating the breath in the lower abdomen
should do so in a standing rather than sitting position (see Chapter 16 on "Abdominal pain"): this
practice in a sitting position tends to increase or cause stagnation in the lower abdomen in
women. Moderate exercise is vital to keep Qi moving in the lower abdomen. Even just brisk
walking in the open air (although not in a city centre!) is an effective exercise. Tai Ji Quan is an
excellent exercise to remove or prevent stagnation in the lower abdomen, and it is particularly
suited to those over 40.