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Liu Zhu (Flowing Abscess) and Tui Yong (Leg Carbuncle), although presenting with different clinical manifestations, share the same treatment principles. The key lies in distinguishing between Yin and Yang patterns and clarifying Deficiency and Excess conditions. If caused by pathogenic Wind-Cold or Heat lingering externally, or by the steaming interaction of Summer-Heat and Dampness, the pathogens cannot enter the Zang-Fu organs internally nor reach the skin and hair externally. Instead, they circulate between Ying (Nutrient) and Wei (Defensive) levels and obstruct within the muscles. They may manifest as Liu Zhu (Flowing Abscess) at multiple sites throughout the body (some arising in the joints of the limbs, others in the chest, abdomen, waist, or buttocks), or as Tui Yong (Leg Carbuncle) on the legs. These belong to Excess patterns and Yang syndromes. In the initial stage, there is aversion to cold accompanied by high fever, or slight aversion to cold with fever, and pain throughout the body's joints. The swelling gradually increases. At this time, it is appropriate to use methods that disperse and resolve the exterior, which may also lead to the resolution of the swelling. If there is fever without sweating, pus will form (generally, the discharge of pus in Yang-pattern Liu Zhu resembles sweating in Shang Han [Cold Damage] disease). Although the color may appear white, it must not be mistaken for a Yin or Deficiency pattern (Liu Zhu and Tui Yong are predominantly white in color). There may also be cases where the base is white but the apex is slightly red; this indicates that pus has already formed (the maturation of Liu Zhu and Tui Yong is characterized by a white apex, a slippery and rapid pulse, and a soft, ripe sensation upon palpation). At this point, incision should be made to drain the pus and expel the pathogenic factors. After the pathogens are expelled, the fever subsides, the body becomes cool, Yuan Qi (Original Qi) naturally recovers, Spleen and Stomach function resumes, appetite increases, and after a few days, when Qi and Blood are abundant, the wound will heal.

In individuals with weak constitutions and insufficient Yuan Qi, or those whose Spleen is injured by emotional stagnation, or Liver damaged by sudden anger, leading to Qi stagnation and Blood stasis, or where Dampness rebels into the muscle clefts, Cold pathogens invade the meridians, Phlegm-Dampness obstructs the collaterals, or Blood stasis settles in the joints, or residual pathogens remain unresolved after illness—all these etiologies result from the failure of True Qi to circulate normally, causing pathogenic factors to stagnate and cause harm. When manifesting as Liu Zhu, there may be nodular masses or diffuse swelling, occurring singly or in odd numbers such as three, five, or seven (Liu Zhu typically occurs in odd numbers). These have not yet ruptured, while other areas swell up. External signs include aversion to cold, fever, reduced appetite, and a fine, weak pulse. Treatment must focus on fortifying the Spleen and Stomach, dispelling Cold and Dampness, and regulating Ying and Blood. When the Spleen and Stomach are robust, Blood is generated naturally, and Qi circulates smoothly. One must not neglect to secure the root and recklessly use cold-natured or draining medications, thereby committing the error of "depleting deficiency." When manifesting as Tui Yong, there is diffuse swelling without a distinct head, unchanged skin color, alternating chills and fever, intermittent pain and soreness, inability to extend the tendons, and restricted movement. Unless one employs substantial tonification of Qi and Blood and warming of the meridians to unblock collaterals, how can the swelling dissipate? How can one achieve rapid onset, quick suppuration, easy contraction, and swift healing? This constitutes the treatment method for Deficiency patterns belonging to Yin. Different syndromes follow the same logic; it is crucial for practitioners to examine carefully and distinguish clearly.

For Yang-pattern Liu Zhu and Tui Yong, one must clearly identify whether Wind, Cold, Summer-Heat, or Heat pathogens have invaded specific meridians. The general approach is to release the exterior and harmonize Ying. If Zheng Qi (Upright Qi) is strong and pathogens are excessive, Wan Xiao Hua Jian Wan (Myriad Resolution and Hardness-Dissolving Pill) should be used to attack and penetrate, ensuring that abscesses resolve without suppuration or rupture quickly if present. This formula has proven effective repeatedly; do not avoid it due to its potent nature. After suppuration and drainage, prioritize harmonizing the Spleen and Stomach. Only if the wound fails to close after a long period should Bu Tuo (Tonification and Support) methods be employed. If Cold-Dampness penetrates the bone, causing inability to extend the feet or move the body, Yang He Tang (Yang Harmony Decoction) must be used to warm the meridians and unblock collaterals. Post-suppuration management remains consistent with previous descriptions.