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Elju (Elbow Carbuncle) refers to a ju (a deep-seated suppurative infection) occurring in the elbow region. All types of ju occurring at joint articulations tend to sever the sinews and joints, and those developing in the elbow are particularly severe. This condition arises from cold-damp pathogenic factors invading the muscles and obstructing the flow of blood and qi.

Fuguju (Bone-Adhering Carbuncle) occurs when wind pathogens penetrate into the bone fissures; wind combines with heat, and is further complicated by cold-dampness. Alternatively, sleeping outdoors during autumn or summer exposes the body to cold, causing wind-heat to lie latent and knot together, leading to obstruction and adherence to the bone, forming a ju. This disease frequently affects large joint articulations. In men, postpartum women, and other women, it often appears in the axilla (Shulou, 鼠瘰), iliac region, or between the knees. In infants and young children, it may occur on the upper arm, elbow, or along the spinal column. In adults and the elderly, acute cases initially present with pain and immobility; pressure elicits bone pain. After several days, the skin and muscle become tight and swollen, resembling edema, which is characteristic of this condition. Children, unable to articulate their symptoms, cry when the affected area is approached, indicating pain in the limbs and joints. In chronic cases among adults and the elderly, there is initially a sensation of heaviness and swelling, followed by numbness, pain, and impaired mobility after some time. Children may exhibit stiffness and immobility in parts of the limbs, resembling paralysis; examination of the joint articulations reveals swollen areas. They do not recognize this as Fuguju. The condition may progress to generalized suppuration without ulceration, leading to death, accompanied by a bluish-dark discoloration of the body. Adults and elderly patients often fail to recognize it as a ju, resulting in fatal outcomes. Some misidentify acute cases as Zeifeng (Thief Wind) and chronic cases as Fengzhong (Wind Swelling).

This pathology stems from cold pathogens invading the meridians and collaterals, obstructing blood and qi. Blood stasis and obstruction lead to the formation of a ju. When ju develops at various joints or the Shu points of the zang-fu organs, the onset is sudden and urgent. Chronic ju lesions located in non-critical areas of the body may persist for years. If pus is not completely drained, parasites may develop within the wound, transforming into a Lou (fistula/sinus tract).

This condition results from the struggle between cold and heat, causing stagnation and obstruction, leading to blood stasis and the formation of a ju. Although the pus has ulcerated and the acute phase has passed, residual heat remains while blood deficiency persists. The patient suffers from intermittent feverish sensations and general weakness and fatigue; hence, it is termed Xure (Deficiency Heat).