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    Chilblains (adjunctive care)

    Also known as: chilblains, pernio, perniosis

    Chilblains are itchy, painful red-purple patches on toes and fingers after cold exposure. They usually settle in 1–3 weeks. Chinese medicine sees them as Cold congealing in the channels with Blood stasis, often on a background of Yang or Blood deficiency.

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    Lifestyle & Diet

    • •Warm up slowly — don't put cold feet near a heater or hot water.
    • •Wear warm socks, gloves and keep your core warm.
    • •Stop smoking, which narrows small blood vessels.
    • •Don't scratch the lesions.

    Cautions & Contraindications

    See sources
    • •No moxa or needling over broken, blistered or infected skin.[,]
    • •Check sensation before moxa in people with diabetes or neuropathy.[]

    When to reassess or seek care again

    See sources

    Review lesions and recurrence each visit; refer if lasting beyond 3 weeks or ulcerating.

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    Sources & Further Reading

    Clinical guidance, red flags and safety notes on this page draw on the following current sources alongside the classical references above.

    1. Chilblains — Healthdirect
      Healthdirect Australia · 2024
    2. Chilblains — DermNet
      DermNet · 2024
    3. Chilblains — NHS
      NHS · 2024
    4. Chinese medicine practitioner safety standards
      AHPRA / Chinese Medicine Board of Australia · 2024

    Educational reference for licensed practitioners. Not a substitute for individual clinical assessment. Refer to conventional care for any red-flag or undiagnosed presentation.