Abstract

Objective : The objective of this study was to explore the meaning of Mai (脉) in the fifteen letters provisions of Gangpyeong-Shanghanlun through the comparative analysis of 10 cases and paleography. Methods : We have collected 10 cases that have been diagnosed and treated by Gangpyeong-Shanghanlun Mai (脉) provision. And then, comparative analysis has been done among those 10 cases. Based on result of case analysis, paleographic meaning of each Mai (脉) have been studied to redefine Gangpyeong-Shanghanlun Mai (脉)’s meaning. Results : After administration of Mai (脉) provision’s herbal medicine, all 10 patients recovered their mobility problem and pain. From this result, we could fomulate the hypothesis that Mai (脉) in Gangpyeong-Shanghanlun could mean mobility problems. After through further paleography studies, we could elaborate each Mai (脉)’s clinical meaning and related diseases. Conclusions : Mai (脉) in Gangpyeong-Shanghanlun could mean mobility problems caused by various diseases, which include musculoskeletal pain, neuropathy, syncope, fatigue, developmental disability and major depressive disorder.