What treatment outcome does drainage of excess primarily aim to achieve?

The drainage of excess in traditional Chinese medicine primarily aims to reduce pain. This concept is rooted in the understanding that excess conditions, often characterized by stagnation of Qi or Blood, can lead to various forms of discomfort, including pain. By promoting the flow and dispersal of excess substances, the goal is to alleviate the blockages causing pain and other symptoms associated with stagnation.

When there is an excess of factors such as Dampness, Heat, or an accumulation of Qi, it can manifest as pain, inflammation, or other discomforts. Techniques used in drainage include acupuncture, herbal medicine, or other modalities that support the release of these excesses, subsequently leading to a reduction in painful sensations.

Other outcomes, such as strengthening deficiency or enhancing vitality, pertain more to the treatment of deficiency states, which are inherently different from excess conditions. Alleviating numbness also may arise from addressing excess, but it is a more specific symptom rather than the primary aim of drainage. Thus, while multiple outcomes can be influenced by treatment strategies, the primary intention behind drainage of excess is to effectively reduce pain by restoring balance within the body.