Treatable conditions with Acupuncture
Facial nerve paralysis is classified into supranuclear (central) and nuclear/infranuclear (peripheral) based on the location of the lesion. The most common type, Bell's palsy, is a representative peripheral disorder that generally responds well to traditional Korean medicine treatments. In contrast, facial nerve paralysis due to supranuclear lesions is more challenging to treat, necessitating early intervention with Korean medicine. The facial nerve controls most of the muscles distributed in the face, so when a problem occurs with the facial nerve, characteristic symptoms arise due to facial muscle relaxation, which can be summarized as follows:
- The facial muscles on the affected side relax, making it appear as if the muscles are pulled to the opposite side.
- It is possible to open the eyes, but closing them tightly is difficult.
- Difficulty blinking makes it hard to effectively protect against foreign substances entering the eyes.
- Difficulty in accurately gathering food between the teeth and cheek while eating.
- Inability to whistle.
Traditional Korean medicine treatments are effective when the facial nerve is compressed due to tissue atrophy, rigidity, and fluid retention (phlegm). These conditions occur when tissues in the face become atrophied and stiff due to external environmental changes, temperature fluctuations, or nutritional changes, resulting in poor circulation. Treatment involves resolving these issues with acupuncture and herbal medicine. It's worth noting that although one might think facial sensation diminishes with facial nerve paralysis, sensation is often normal. This is because facial sensation is predominantly governed by the trigeminal nerve.
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Treatment Case 1: Patient: 26-year-old female, from India
Symptoms: Developed paralysis on the right side of the face at the age of 17 and had not received any treatment. The movement on the right side of the face was significantly weaker than on the left, with a noticeable difference when smiling or making facial expressions. The movement on the right side was about 50% of that on the left.
Treatment: After six acupuncture treatments, administered twice a week, the difference in movement between the right and left sides of the face was no longer noticeable, and treatment was concluded.
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Treatment Case 2: Patient: 61-year-old female, from Korea
Symptoms: Diagnosed with Bell's palsy by a family doctor and referred for acupuncture treatment. Had taken all prescribed antiviral medications before visiting. The left facial muscles were not moving, preventing her from making facial expressions. She had difficulty closing her eyes properly, required artificial tears, and used sleep tape at night. Eating was challenging, and water would spill from the left side of her mouth.
Treatment: Acupuncture treatment was administered twice a week. There was no noticeable improvement after the first three sessions, but slight improvement in muscle movement on the left side of the face was observed from the fourth session onward. By the sixth session, she could close her eyes while sleeping without needing sleep tape. After ten sessions, the movement of the left and right facial muscles was almost identical, and treatment was concluded.
Trigeminal neuralgia is a chronic nerve pain disorder that causes severe pain in specific areas of the face. It can be classified into idiopathic and symptomatic types based on the underlying cause. Idiopathic trigeminal neuralgia refers to cases where the cause is not clearly identified, while symptomatic trigeminal neuralgia occurs due to a specific underlying condition. The causes of symptomatic trigeminal neuralgia include tumors at the base of the brain, meningitis, aneurysms, sinus diseases, dental issues, infectious diseases (such as influenza, typhoid fever, malaria, etc.), metabolic disorders, and intoxication.
The primary symptom of trigeminal neuralgia is sudden, severe pain on one side of the face. The characteristics of this pain are as follows:
- Nature of pain: The pain is typically described as a sharp, stabbing, or burning sensation, often feeling like an electric shock.
- Paroxysmal pain: The pain occurs as short, intense episodes lasting from a few seconds to a few minutes, and these episodes can recur frequently.
- Triggers: Everyday activities such as chewing, talking, washing the face, brushing teeth, or exposure to wind can trigger the pain.
- Location of pain: The pain usually affects one side of the face, particularly the jaw, cheeks, or forehead, and the area of pain may vary depending on the distribution of the trigeminal nerve.
In traditional Korean medicine, trigeminal neuralgia is believed to be caused by excessive tension in the facial tissues, which can compress the trigeminal nerve. Treatment aims to relax the facial tissues using acupuncture and herbal medicine, which can help reduce pain and relieve nerve compression.
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Treatment Case 1:
- Patient: 64-year-old male, Korean
- Symptoms: The patient experienced unbearable facial pain throughout the night and had been undergoing treatment at a Western medical hospital for two months without improvement. The pain did not subside even with increased doses of medication.
- Treatment Progress: The patient began acupuncture treatment three times a week. After three sessions, he was able to sleep comfortably for the first time in a while. From the fourth acupuncture session, herbal medicine was added to the treatment plan. By the sixth session, the pain had significantly decreased. After the eighth session, the patient experienced only mild pain while eating, which was tolerable.
Headaches are a common symptom in everyday life, but their causes are diverse and cannot be generalized. The sensitivity to pain and tolerance can vary greatly between individuals, and psychological factors also play a significant role, making the condition complex. Modern medicine classifies the mechanisms of migraines and other types of headaches as follows:
1. Dilation of intracranial arteries: a primary cause of migraines
2. Traction of intracranial tissues: associated with brain tumors, brain hemorrhage, post-cerebrospinal fluid extraction
3. Dilation and traction of intracranial blood vessels: seen in cases of fever, hypertension, cerebral aneurysm, cerebrovascular malformation, oxygen deficiency, and intoxication
4. Inflammation and irritation of cranial tissues: such as meningitis, subarachnoid hemorrhage
5. Contraction of head and neck skeletal muscles: commonly known as tension-type headaches
6. Referred pain from stimulation in specific areas: including glaucoma, refractive errors, and inflammations of the ear, nose, or mouth
In contrast, traditional Korean medicine categorizes headache causes into internal factors, external factors, and other causes. For example, headaches accompanied by a cold are considered external headaches, while those caused primarily by internal factors include hypertension or tension headaches. Headaches resulting from trauma fall into neither internal nor external categories. Traditional Korean medicine further classifies headaches based on their symptoms as follows:
1. Wind-type headache: dizziness, fever, sweating, muscle cramps, aversion to wind, floating pulse
2. Heat-type headache: fever, excessive sweating, thirst, chest discomfort, facial flushing, red eyes, preference for cold and aversion to heat, dark urine, constipation, strong and rapid pulse
3. Damp-type headache: feeling of heaviness in the head, worsens in humid or cloudy weather
4. Cold-type headache: headache extending to the teeth, chills, cold extremities
5. Qi deficiency headache: more severe in the morning and alleviated in the evening, worsens with fatigue, general weakness, shortness of breath, loss of appetite
6. Blood deficiency headache: persistent but not intense, worsens in the afternoon or evening, pale complexion and lips, general weakness, feeling of warmth in the palms and soles
7. Phlegm-type headache: feeling as if something is covering the head, dizziness, nausea, restlessness, heavy body, excessive phlegm
8. Emotional headache: mostly due to liver dysfunction, worsens with stress
9. Food retention headache: caused by indigestion, accompanied by bloating, belching, and acid reflux
Traditional Korean medicine diagnoses headaches using these classifications and treats them accordingly with acupuncture and herbal medicine.
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Treatment Case 1:
- Patient: 40-year-old woman, Korean
- Symptoms: Severe migraines occur 2-3 times a month. Painkillers do not alleviate the symptoms, and the patient becomes bedridden during attacks.
- Treatment Progress: Began treatment with acupuncture twice a week and herbal medicine. Two weeks after starting treatment, the patient experienced only one minor headache with significantly reduced intensity and duration. One month after starting treatment, the patient reported no headaches. The treatment was adjusted to acupuncture once a week with continued herbal medicine. After two months with no recurrence of headaches, the treatment was discontinued.
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Treatment Case 2:
- Patient: 38-year-old woman, from Eastern Europe
- Symptoms: Severe migraines occur monthly since the age of 18, particularly one week before menstruation, persisting for nearly 20 years. The patient regularly takes painkillers and is incapacitated during headaches.
- Treatment Progress: Started treatment with acupuncture twice a week and herbal medicine. After two weeks, the headaches one week before menstruation were significantly reduced, to the point where painkillers were no longer necessary. After seven weeks of treatment, menstruation began without any headaches, to the patient’s surprise. The treatment was adjusted to acupuncture once a week with continued herbal medicine. After 12 weeks with no headaches, acupuncture was discontinued, and herbal medicine was continued for four more weeks, then treatment was concluded.
Sciatica is typically characterized by pain radiating from the lower back to the back of the thigh, knee, ankle, and down to the toes along the sciatic nerve. Sometimes the pain is localized in the buttocks, knee, or the back of the leg. The pain can range from sharp and stabbing to dull and aching, and it may worsen with cold, changes in posture, or touch.In traditional Korean medicine, the treatment focuses on IntraMuscular Electro Acupuncture Stimulation Treatment (IMEAST), which targets the major muscles along the path of the sciatic nerve.The key muscles along the path of the sciatic nerve are as follows:
- Quadratus Lumborum: Located between the spine and the pelvis, this muscle is related to the upper portion of the sciatic nerve.
- Gluteus Maximus: The largest muscle in the buttock, through which the sciatic nerve passes underneath.
- Gluteus Medius and Gluteus Minimus: The sciatic nerve passes below these muscles.
- Piriformis: A deep muscle in the buttock; the sciatic nerve runs beneath or through it. When the piriformis compresses the nerve, it can lead to piriformis syndrome.
- Hamstring Muscles: Comprised of the biceps femoris, semitendinosus, and semimembranosus, these muscles run along the back of the thigh, following the path of the sciatic nerve.
- Adductor Muscles: The muscles on the inner thigh; some branches of the sciatic nerve may pass near these muscles.
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Treatment Case 1: 60-Year-Old White Female Canadian
The patient experienced intense pain in the right leg for about two weeks, severe enough to disrupt sleep and walking. Sitting or standing worsened the pain, and painkillers had little effect. Treatment with IMEAST was initiated twice a week. After just one treatment, the pain began to subside, and after three treatments, the patient was able to sleep at night. By the fifth treatment, the pain had nearly disappeared, and treatment was concluded. This case is documented in the Greenleaf Google Reviews.
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Treatment Case 2: 55-Year-Old White Female RMT
The patient reported sharp, stabbing pain down her left leg, radiating from her lower back for a week. She was scheduled for a European trip in a week and was desperate for relief. The pain was so severe she couldn't work or manage daily tasks. Based on the pain location and pattern, a diagnosis of sciatica was made, and treatment with IMEAST was started. After the first treatment, the patient felt about a 30-40% reduction in pain. Following the second treatment two days later, the patient reported that she could sleep, with pain reduced by 50-60%. After the third treatment, the pain was nearly gone. She left for her European trip after the third session and later sent a thank-you letter, expressing gratitude for completing her trip pain-free. (The letter is available as a record.)
Among diseases presenting with chest pain, intercostal neuralgia is characterized by sharp, paroxysmal pain that follows the distribution of the intercostal nerves. It typically involves tenderness in the anterior cutaneous branch of the intercostal nerve, located at the sternum and along the inner edge of the rectus abdominis muscle. This condition presents as a band-like pain on one side of the chest, often accompanied by sensory abnormalities such as numbness and tingling in the same area. It is more common in women, especially affecting the left 5th to 9th intercostal nerves. Deep breathing, coughing, and other movements of the rib cage can trigger pain episodes, so it is essential to differentiate this condition from diseases affecting the muscles, fascia, and pleura.
In traditional Korean medicine, treatment involves IntraMuscular Electro Acupuncture Stimulation Treatment (IMEAST), which helps relieve pressure on the affected nerves by targeting the muscles around them and quickly eliminating any metabolic waste within the muscles.
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Treatment Case 1: 35-Year-Old White Female
The patient experienced pain in her right side while breathing, starting three days prior. The pain was localized between the ribs, and after diagnosing intercostal neuralgia, IMEAST treatment was initiated. After the first treatment, the pain was reduced by about 40%. The second treatment was performed three days later, after which the patient reported no pain. The treatment was then concluded.
Rheumatoid arthritis is a chronic inflammatory disease that causes inflammation in multiple joints, including those in the hands, wrists, feet, and ankles. The exact cause is still unknown, but autoimmune mechanisms are considered a primary factor. An autoimmune response occurs when the immune system, which usually protects the body from external threats, mistakenly attacks the body itself.
The main issue in chronic rheumatoid arthritis is systemic joint involvement, with synovial and vascular proliferation and the absorption of cartilage and bone. This chronic systemic inflammatory condition, with no known cause, is marked by these characteristics. Although joint inflammation may naturally subside in some cases, persistent inflammation leads to progressive joint destruction, deformity, and functional impairment. Extra-articular symptoms, such as rheumatoid nodules, arteritis, neuritis, scleritis, pericarditis, lymphadenopathy, and splenomegaly, are also common. These symptoms are not considered complications but are now understood to be intrinsic to the nature of chronic rheumatoid arthritis.
Epidemiologically, it affects an estimated 0.3–1.5% of the population, with female prevalence rates 2–3 times higher than males. The peak incidence for females occurs between the ages of 30–50, while males experience a secondary peak incidence after age 50. The occurrence within families is relatively high, and monozygotic twins also show higher than expected incidence rates, suggesting that a combination of genetic predisposition (e.g., HLA-DR4 antigen) and environmental factors likely contribute to the condition. Since the cause is unknown, Western medicine currently lacks causative or definitive treatments. NSAIDs are used as symptomatic treatment for polyarthritis pain. Immunosuppressants such as D-penicillamine, Carfenil, Bucillamine, Salazopyrine, and Methotrexate, along with corticosteroids, are also commonly used in various combinations to manage immune abnormalities.
In traditional Korean medicine, herbal prescriptions are tailored to each case to provide pain relief, improve overall health, and reduce side effects from Western medications. Acupuncture is used to alleviate joint pain and treat surrounding ligaments, tendons, and fascia affected by excessive strain. Acupuncture can enhance local circulation in the affected areas, helping to reduce inflammation and providing analgesic effects.
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Treatment Case 1: 54-year-old female
The patient was a 54-year-old woman with a medication allergy to cold remedies, making it difficult for her to use Western medicines. She developed joint pain in her right hand in March, followed by morning stiffness and swelling in the proximal interphalangeal joints of both hands. She was prescribed NSAIDs and Bucillamine at a nearby clinic but developed a rash a week later, leading to discontinuation of the medications. Seeking herbal treatment, she visited a traditional medicine clinic. At stage 3 chronic rheumatoid arthritis, her ESR was 85 mm/hr, CRP was 6.35 mg/dl, and her rheumatoid factor was 228 IU/ml, indicating high disease activity. The patient had facial flushing, frequent dry mouth, and a floating pulse, with warmth in the swollen joints, so she was given Wolbigachangbu-tang. After five months, her joint pain significantly improved, although there was no improvement in lab results, so the prescription was changed to Doheakseunggi-tang. Subsequent tests gradually showed improvement, and after three years, her ESR was 7 mm/hr, CRP was negative, and disease activity had subsided. She continues to experience stable progress to this day.
Even without any memory of shoulder injury, you start to feel shoulder pain. Thinking it will pass, you ignore it, but over time, the pain intensifies. Soon, raising your arm becomes difficult, making everyday activities like washing your face, eating with a spoon, and using the bathroom challenging. When you finally visit the doctor, you’re told it’s "frozen shoulder." Commonly affecting people in their 50s, this condition involves restricted movement and pain in the shoulder joint. Inflammation (capsulitis) and adhesions form in the tissues surrounding the shoulder joint, making movement difficult and painful. Medically, this condition is known as adhesive capsulitis and is often referred to as "frozen shoulder."
Due to the unique structure of the shoulder joint, frozen shoulder causes pain that limits daily activities like styling hair, fastening belts, and raising arms (anterior elevation: flexion, posterior elevation: extension). Inability to style hair or fasten a belt is due to limitations in shoulder abduction, external rotation, adduction, and internal rotation. In conclusion, frozen shoulder is a relatively benign pain syndrome characterized by painful shoulder hypomobility.
• Pathological Changes in Frozen Shoulder includes, but is not limited to, the following anatomical conditions:
• Disuse contracture from prolonged immobilization
• Supraspinatus tendon tear, calcification within the tendon, and impingement syndrome
• Bursitis
• Periosteal pain from biceps shortening at the coracoid attachment, pulled by the coracobrachialis
• Tendinitis of the long head of the biceps
• Acromioclavicular joint degeneration
Symptoms include pain and restricted motion, along with significant proximal muscle atrophy around the shoulder joint, especially in the supraspinatus and infraspinatus muscles, as well as some atrophy in the trapezius and deltoid muscles.
Treatment Approaches:
For acute pain, localized stabilization, cold compresses, steroid hormone and local anesthetic injections, or anti-inflammatory painkillers are used. These treatments temporarily alleviate pain but do not address the root cause. Traditional Korean medicine treatments include acupuncture and herbal remedies. Acupuncture relaxes overly tense muscle fibers, offering fundamental relief from pain. Herbal medicine addresses the internal factors contributing to frozen shoulder, aiming for a root-cause approach to treatment. Physical therapy and active range-of-motion exercises are also beneficial for improving mobility and reducing discomfort. Early intervention during the “freezing” stage of the disease enhances treatment effectiveness, whereas treatment during the “frozen” stage will be more difficult, focusing on pain management and gradual recovery of range of motion.
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Treatment Case 1: 64-year-old Male
This patient presented with adhesive capsulitis roughly 6 weeks after the initial onset of symptoms. He noticed all of a sudden that he could not raise his left arm to dry his hair one morning. He could not elevate his shoulder beyond 100 degrees, and any elevation past 80 degrees was accompanied with significant pain and discomfort. The patient complained that it felt like “there was a rock lodged between his shoulders”.
As the patient was considered to be past the freezing stage already, treatment was mostly conservative and focused on lessening the discomfort experienced as well as slowly gaining mobility of the affected shoulder. The patient was treated with local shoulder point acupuncture according to the IMEAST (Intramuscular Electro Acupuncture Stimulation Treatment) protocol for five sessions. After these sessions, the patient reported that there was a considerable decrease in the local pain experienced, even though the range of motion only increased by 15 or so degrees. After five more sessions, the patient reported that their range of motion increased another 20 or so degrees. While many motions were still somewhat difficult, the patient was able to get through their daily activities relatively well with some adjustments.
A tendon sheath, or synovial sheath, is a connective tissue sac that allows smooth movement of a tendon as it passes through ligaments and retinaculum (supporting bands). It is attached to the bone and consists of two layers. The inner layer, similar in structure to the synovial layer of a joint capsule, secretes viscous synovial fluid to facilitate smooth tendon movement. Tenosynovitis is the inflammation of this sheath. Certain tendons, like the Achilles tendon, lack a tendon sheath and are instead surrounded by loose connective tissue called the paratenon; inflammation of this tissue is known as paratenonitis.
Causes of tenosynovitis include bacterial infection, trauma, metabolic disorders (e.g., diabetes, gout), and rheumatic diseases. However, the most common cause is inflammation due to repetitive mechanical irritation. This is frequently seen in office workers who type continuously, musicians, or athletes who perform repetitive motions, where tissues are overused without adequate rest, leading to inflammation. Symptoms can include mild warmth and swelling, pain during movement, and a creaking sound when moving the fingers, often occurring in the forearm, Achilles tendon, dorsum of the foot, hand, and other areas. Specific conditions include de Quervain’s disease (caused by stenosis in the sheath), synovial sheath inflammation, and trigger finger from thickening of the synovial or ligamentous sheath.
Western medical treatments focus on stabilizing the affected area (splints or supports), restricting movement, warm baths, topical anti-inflammatory medications, and injecting a combination of water-soluble steroids and local anesthetics into the tendon sheath (1 session daily for up to 3-4 sessions) as conservative treatment. When there is no significant improvement in cases of stenosing tenosynovitis, surgical treatment to release the sheath is recommended. However, surgery should be approached with caution due to potential complications like insufficient release or formation of neuromas post-surgery. For purulent tenosynovitis, early incision and drainage along with antibiotics are necessary.
A TKM practitioner treats tenosynovitis (inflammation of the tendon sheath) using a combination of targeted acupuncture techniques to reduce pain, alleviate inflammation, and promote healing in the affected tendons. Needles may be inserted around the affected tendon sheath to increase circulation, and accelerate the body’s own healing process. Trigger points or muscle knots can develop around the affected tendon due to compensatory movement or tension. Electro-acupuncture protocols such as IMEAST (Intramuscular Electro Acupuncture Stimulation Treatment) may be used to release these trigger points, reducing tension on the tendon sheath and relieving associated pain. This technique is effective for pain management and can stimulate healing by increasing blood flow to the tendon and surrounding tissues.
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Treatment Case 1: 42-year-old female
The patient is an office worker who has recently started a much more demanding job compared to her previous position. She is spending a lot of time doing repetitive tasks on the computer, and sometimes takes her work home on the weekends to make up. After completing a particularly demanding project, she first noticed a tenderness and a general “off” feeling near her right thumb and dorsal aspect of her hand. She took some OTC painkillers and went back to work the next week. At the end of the week, she noticed increased pain, some swelling, and continuing tenderness on the thumb and wrist. The pain worsened with repetitive typing as well as wrist movements at home like cooking or housework. She put hot packs on it and continued to take OTC painkillers but the pain did not subside. She could only do computer work for about 30 minutes before her symptoms flared up.
The practitioner concluded she was suffering from DeQuervain’s synovitis. Acupuncture sessions that target the locally affected tendon sheath on the hand and wrist were treated. Furthermore, the overly stressed forearm muscles were treated through electroacupuncture using IMEAST(Intramuscular Electroacupuncture Stimulation Treatment). Treatment was done 2 sessions per week for 4 weeks.
• After the 3rd session, she noticed a change in how long she could do work on the computer before the onset of her symptoms. Before, she could only do 30 minutes, but now she should manage about 90 minutes.
• After the 5th session, she reported that she was able to resume some of her housework again without feeling too much discomfort.
• After the 7th session, she reported that she could now manage about 2 hours of work on the computer before the onset of symptoms.
• After the 8th and last session, she reported that the swelling, tenderness, and pain was mostly diminished. It still flared up from time to time and bothered her, but she could manage and get through the day by taking sufficient breaks and doing stretches and exercises.
The cervical sprain resulting from whiplash is one of the injuries that occurs most frequently in minor or moderate traffic accidents, although other sources of injury such as sports or workplace injuries are known. When the cervical spine makes a sudden motion to the back (hyperextension) and then a sudden motion to the front (hyperflexion), there is great stretching and compression of the muscles, ligaments, and sometimes also the bones and nerves of the cervical spine. This causes acute pain from soft tissue injury including muscles, tendons and ligaments, bringing about neck stiffness, fatigue, and range of motion restriction.
There are four main distinguishing symptoms of whiplash which are as follows:
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• Cognitive Fatigue: confusion, disorientation, memory loss, low responsiveness to external stimuli, diminished capacity for mental tasks
• Vestibulo-ocular: altered balance and visual acuity, light sensitivity, symptom provocation with tests, possible cranial nerve affected, vomiting
• Mood: anxiety, agitation, sadness, depression, irritability, emotional swings, and poor sleep.
• Headache: head, neck, and shoulder pain and stiffness, restricted motion, TMJ tenderness, local myospasm.
There are correspondingly three grades of concussion which are commonly used in a clinical setting.
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• Grade 1: no loss of consciousness, other symptoms resolve in less than 15 minutes
• Grade 2: no loss of consciousness, other symptoms take more than 15 minutes to resolve
• Grade 3: any loss of consciousness (seconds or minutes), other symptoms take more than 15 minutes to resolve
Treatment of cervical strain by a Traditional Korean Medicine practitioner will consist of a personalized treatment plan, including but not limited to the following modalities.
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• Acupuncture to relieve muscular tension, release knots, and improve functioning and strength
• Herbal medicine to restore the correct functioning of the body’s balancing and proprioceptive capacity, as well as reducing pain and tension
• Diet and lifestyle modifications to maximize the body’s healing capacity and minimize any stress that results from the recovery process
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Treatment Case 1: 58-year-old male
This patient sought treatment after suffering neck pain, dizziness, stiffness, and limited range of motion after a recent car accident. He was diagnosed as having whiplash-associated disorder (WAD) Grade II (pain and limited movement without neurological symptoms. In terms of history, the patient has a history of mild osteoarthritis in the cervical spine, with no previous whiplash or major neck injuries. Prior to the injury, he maintained an active lifestyle, regularly walking and performing light cardio exercises.
The patient reported moderate to severe pain (7/10 on the pain scale) localized around the neck and upper shoulder area. Other than stiffness, there was also limited range of motion, occasional headaches, and tenderness in the trapezius muscles. Treatment was done according to the IMEAST (Intramuscular Electroacupuncture Stimulation Treatment), whereby the muscles responsible for the musculoskeletal dysfunction are targeted and treated. Furthermore, some range-of-motion exercises as well as exercises aimed at resolving dizziness and vertigo-like symptoms were prescribed. Treatments were done biweekly for a total of 5 weeks.
After the second week, the patient reported a reduced pain intensity of 5 out of 10, with some improved comfort in doing daily activities. After the 4th week, the patient reported a pain intensity of only 3 out of 10, and noticed that he got less headaches and felt less dizzy as well. After the 5th week, he continued to report his improvement. While his history meant that neck pain would never be completely resolved, he felt well enough to resume most of his previous daily activities. Therefore he was discharged and prescribed maintenance exercises and stretches.
Achilles tendinopathy, like its name suggests, is a condition affecting the achilles tendon of the foot. The achilles tendon attaches the calf muscles (gastrocnemius) to the heel bone. Most often, this condition results from overuse of the tendon while running and walking for athletes. However, it can also be suffered by anyone who remains standing for too long at their job, or those with underlying conditions such as arthritis or structural foot problems.
Common symptoms include soreness and pain along the backside of the calf and heel, stiffness and inability to walk smoothly, and swelling and tenderness of the achilles tendon itself. At times pain and stiffness of the sole of the foot (plantar fasciitis) can occur alongside it as a compilation.
Treatment of achilles tendinopathy by a Traditional Korean Medicine practitioner will depend on first and foremost a precise diagnosis of which anatomical structures have been affected. If different structures of the lower limb are affected, it naturally follows that this will pathologically manifest itself in the particular complaints of the patient. Therefore, the practitioner will seek to first understand the current musculoskeletal state of the patient in a comprehensive manner. Afterward, the treatment will include the following as the chief goals.
• Release tension in the muscles that are connected to the tendon
• Facilitate recovery of the achilles tendon by introducing greater circulation and release of inflammatory chemicals of the body
• Resolve any referred pain or any other structures that are affected in tandem.
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Treatment Case 1: 24-year-old male
The patient is a competitive hockey player, who has been suffering from pain and stiffness in the left Achilles tendon for four months. Symptoms began gradually three months ago. They were initially mild, and he only felt some discomfort and pulsing after practice which subsided after a few days. However, it gradually worsened. Especially after intense practices and traveling far for away games, the pain became unbearable and made it very difficult for him to play to the level he needed to.
Now the patient reports pain at 5/10 at rest, escalating to 7-8/10 after intense exercise, localized in the mid-portion of the left Achilles tendon. There was also slight swelling, stiffness, and pain with palpation, as well as pain on resisted plantar flexion and limited tolerance for single-leg heel raises. Furthermore, there was slightly reduced dorsiflexion in the affected ankle, and moderate weakness in calf muscles on the affected side compared to the unaffected leg.
The principles of treatment in this case were to reduce pain, promote blood circulation to the affected area, and enhance tendon healing. Some local points around the tendon area, as well as points around the gastrocnemius and soleus muscles were chosen and electrically stimulated to relieve tension, enhance circulation, and restore muscle function. The patient was also prescribed daily isometric and eccentric calf exercises, with the addition of light stretching and mobility work.
After the third treatment, the patient noted a notable reduction in pain at rest (2-3/10) and improved morning stiffness. There was also improved ankle dorsiflexion and less pain during resisted plantar flexion. After the fifth treatment, there was now only minimal pain (1-2/10) during regular daily activities and light practices, with improved tolerance to calf loading. After eight treatments, the patient now reported being able to perform during regular hockey practices and strength training very close to what he was able to do before his injury. He therefore returned to full intensity practice, and at a 3 month follow up call reported no return of symptoms.
Cervical radiculopathy is a condition caused by compression or irritation of a nerve root in the cervical spine (neck region), resulting in pain, numbness, or weakness that radiates from the neck into the shoulder, arm, or hand. The cervical spine comprises seven vertebrae (C1-C7) with intervertebral discs in between. The cervical nerve roots exit the spinal cord between each vertebra and form the cervical and brachial plexuses, which provide motor and sensory innervation to the upper extremities.
Cervical radiculopathy typically occurs due to:
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• Herniated Disc: When the intervertebral disc's nucleus pulposus protrudes and compresses a nerve root.
• Degenerative Changes: Osteoarthritis or degenerative disc disease can cause bone spurs (osteophytes) or narrowing of the intervertebral foramina, leading to nerve compression.
• Spinal Stenosis: Narrowing of the spinal canal, often due to age-related changes, which compresses the nerve roots.
• Muscular tension and/or hypertrophy: overworked and knotted muscle fibers may compress the nerve at different locations, leading to neuropathic symptoms.
Compression of the nerve root impairs normal nerve function, causing the following major symptoms:
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• Pain: Radiating from the neck down into the arm, often following a dermatomal pattern based on the affected nerve root.
• Numbness and Tingling: Sensory disturbances in specific areas of the upper limb.
• Muscle Weakness: Due to disruption in motor signals, leading to weakness in specific muscle groups innervated by the affected nerve root.
Diagnosis is typically confirmed through clinical examination, imaging (MRI or CT), and sometimes electromyography (EMG) to assess nerve function. Treatment from Medical Doctors often includes anti-inflammatory medications, and sometimes corticosteroid injections or surgery if symptoms persist.
Traditional Korean Medicine treatment of cervical radiculopathy consists in both dealing with the locally affected areas and resolving the anatomical issue that is the source of the problems, as well as improving the general healing capacity of the patient. Acupuncture will be done in order to release any tension and knots in the affected areas, improve circulation, and support the strength-loading capacity of the muscles. This will help the patient mechanically sustain themselves throughout their daily activities. Herbal medicine might also be prescribed to speed up the healing process, and provide the body with the nourishment required.
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Treatment Case 1: 42-year-old male
The patient is a construction worker who works long hours on his feet, lifting heavy objects repeatedly over his head. The patient has no prior neck or spine injuries but reports a history of mild lower back pain related to his physically demanding job. A few months ago, a toolbox fell from a few stories high and the patient had to hyperextend their neck in order to avoid the object. The patient was not struck and was relieved, but since that night began to feel pain radiating from the neck to the right arm with numbness and weakness. He especially feels this pain when reaching up to grab something or lift something, and it is worse at the end of the work day. The patient tried heat packs and rest but it provided little relief.
The patient reported 9 out of 10 pain, radiating from the neck through the right shoulder and arm, accompanied by tingling and occasional numbness in the thumb and index finger. He described his pain as if “a person with a pitchfork was stabbing him”, and noted that he could not grab things as firmly as he used to before the accident.
A physical examination found that there was limited neck extension and rotation to the right due to pain. A neurological examination found that there was reduced sensation in the C6 dermatome (thumb and index finger), mild weakness in wrist extensors, and diminished right biceps reflex, consistent with C6 nerve root compression.
To alleviate nerve compression, improve neck mobility, restore strength, and promote functional recovery, acupuncture was done on the affected areas of the neck where the impinged nerve was causing much of the symptoms. Other often impinged areas of the upper limbs were also treated. Some light manual therapy was done such as gentle traction and mobilization techniques in order to decompress the cervical spine and relieve nerve irritation. The patient was also instructed on nerve-gliding exercises so as to manage the symptoms at home.
After the second week of biweekly treatment, there was a slight reduction in pain, although the patient was still largely unable to perform the daily activities that he wished nor return to work. The tingling in the arm and fingers were also persistent. After the third week of treatment, there was more reduction in pain, and the tingling symptoms were slightly improved. The patient was able to drive their car to their own appointments without feeling much pain. After another two weeks of treatment, the patient was able to return to work. He still felt some pain, especially after a long and hard day of work. However, there was no tingling or numbness, and the patient felt his grip strength was about 85 to 90% of what it was before.
Chronic knee pain is persistent pain in the knee joint lasting more than 4 weeks. It can result from various conditions that affect the structures within and around the knee, including bones, cartilage, ligaments, tendons, and muscles. The knee joint is a complex hinge joint formed by the femur (thigh bone), tibia (shin bone), and patella (kneecap). The joint’s stability and movement are supported by several structures:
Cartilage: The knee contains two types of cartilage—the menisci (shock-absorbing fibrocartilage) and articular cartilage, which covers the ends of bones to facilitate smooth movement.
Ligaments: The anterior cruciate ligament (ACL), posterior cruciate ligament (PCL), medial collateral ligament (MCL), and lateral collateral ligament (LCL) stabilize the knee.
Tendons: The quadriceps and patellar tendons connect muscles to the knee, enabling movement.
Chronic knee pain may stem from conditions such as:
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Osteoarthritis: Degeneration of articular cartilage, leading to joint inflammation, stiffness, and pain.
Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome: Pain due to misalignment or overuse of the patella, often aggravated by activities like squatting or climbing stairs.
Tendinopathies: Chronic inflammation or degeneration of tendons, especially the patellar tendon, causing pain with jumping or running.
Meniscus Tears: Damage to the meniscal cartilage can lead to persistent pain, swelling, and joint instability.
Ligament Injuries: Chronic pain can result from partial or healed ligament tears that affect knee stability.
Chronic knee pain often involves inflammation, cartilage degradation, or changes in the surrounding tissues. Prolonged inflammation can damage tissues and lead to fibrosis or cartilage erosion, causing pain, swelling, and limited mobility. Additionally, weakened or imbalanced muscles around the knee can increase joint strain, exacerbating pain.
Chronic knee pain may include the following symptoms:
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• Persistent or intermittent pain, often worsened with specific activities (e.g., climbing stairs or prolonged sitting)
• Swelling, stiffness, and sometimes joint instability
• Decreased range of motion and strength
Conventional diagnosis by a Medical Doctor typically involves a physical examination, imaging (X-ray, MRI), and sometimes lab tests to assess for inflammatory conditions. Treatment may include physical therapy, anti-inflammatory medications, lifestyle modification, and, in some cases, surgical intervention if conservative measures fail.
Acupuncture treatment aims at first and foremost reducing the pain and discomfort felt by the patient in their daily activities. Acupuncture points will be chosen to reduce any muscle tension and increase circulation in any atrophied muscles. Electrical stimulation is often applied as it has been shown to increase the production of pain-reducing chemicals such as endorphin and regulate the nervous system’s response to chronic pain. While direct resolution of any serious structural issues such as a torn ligament is not likely with acupuncture, it can provide lasting relief of many chronic symptoms by addressing the pain and dysfunction sustained by surrounding and supporting structures even in such serious cases.
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Treatment Case 1: 62-year-old woman
The patient is a 62-year-old teacher who spends a lot of time standing and walking around as part of her job. Since 6 months ago, she has been suffering chronic knee pain aggravated by prolonged standing and walking. Patient has no history of traumatic knee injury but has reported occasional knee discomfort in the past. When she had a physical a few years back, the X-ray results showed mild degeneration in the patellofemoral joint consistent with early osteoarthritic changes.
The patient reports a pain of 5 to 6 during prolonged standing, which may sometimes increase to a 6 to 7 out of 10 after a long day of standing. The pain is achy and focused around the patella. Her range of motion is unremarkable, but has mild discomfort in knee flexion. Upon palpation, there is tenderness around the patella and quadriceps tendons. There is slight swelling both on the right and left side. Mild knee valgus can be observed during standing and walking, likely due to muscle fatigue and weakness in stabilizers.
After the second weekly treatment, the patient noted some reduction in pain, now going down to a 3 to 4 out of 10. She was able to teach for about 2 hours before starting to feel the pain. She noted a temporary reduction in pain following each session, with less tightness around the knee joint, but mentioned that it did come back after a couple days. Patient was convinced to come in biweekly instead of on a weekly basis. After another two weeks in treatment, pain was further reduced, and this time the swelling seemed to have resolved. Her gait was noticeably more stable. And after another week she was discharged.
Lower back pain, or lumbar strain, is a common and often debilitating condition that can affect individuals of all ages. The cause of this condition may be numerous, from sports injuries, repeated sitting, falls, anatomical or structural imbalance (such as foot length), and others. One prevalent cause of chronic or acute lower back pain is disc herniation, which occurs when the soft, gel-like center of a spinal disc pushes through its tougher exterior.
What Is Disc Herniation?
The spine is made up of vertebrae separated by intervertebral discs that act as cushions and provide flexibility. A disc herniation happens when the disc’s inner material (nucleus pulposus) protrudes through the outer layer (annulus fibrosus). This can put pressure on nearby nerves, resulting in pain, numbness, tingling, or weakness that can radiate through the lower back and down the legs (sciatica).
Causes of Lumbar Disc Herniation
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Age-related degeneration: Over time, discs can lose water content and elasticity, making them more prone to injury.
Sudden trauma: Accidents or abrupt movements can cause discs to bulge or rupture.
Repetitive stress: Heavy lifting, improper posture, or repetitive bending can contribute to disc strain.
Genetic factors: Some individuals are more predisposed to developing disc issues due to hereditary influences.
Symptoms to Watch For
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Sharp or persistent pain in the lower back
Pain that radiates to the buttocks, thighs, or calves
Muscle weakness or reduced mobility
Numbness or tingling in the legs or feet
These symptoms can vary in intensity and may become worse with prolonged sitting, bending, or lifting. Acupuncture can play a crucial role in managing and alleviating lumbar pain due to disc herniation. At our clinic, our expert acupuncturists use tailored programs to reduce pain, improve spinal function, and prevent future injuries. Key components of our treatment plan include:
• Acupuncture Treatment: the affected areas as well as any areas that are structurally related to the load-bearing work of the lower back will be treated as a primary concern. Electrical stimulation will be applied to these areas to relieve the often shortened muscles, decreasing the tension that is placed on the nerve.
• Targeted exercises: Strengthening core and back muscles to provide support and enhance stability.
• Education on posture and ergonomics: Guidance on body mechanics and posture to reduce stress on the spine.
Early intervention and a proactive approach are essential for preventing chronic pain and enhancing recovery. Our team is committed to providing a personalized care plan to help you regain mobility and return to your daily activities with confidence.
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Treatment Case 1: 54-year-old male
A 54-year-old university researcher came to our clinic experiencing persistent lower back pain due to a lumbar disc herniation. The disc herniation happened about a month and a half ago, and while they were treated at the ER and discharged, the pain and discomfort still remained from time to time. The patient’s demanding work required long hours of sitting and extensive data analysis, exacerbating their condition. The symptoms included sharp lower back pain radiating to the left leg and periodic numbness. The patient found the “foreign sensation” especially diminishing to their quality of life as they liked to bike and run to clear their mind.
A comprehensive approach was applied as this patient’s treatment plan, incorporating acupuncture as a core element of treatment:
• Initial assessment: The patient’s medical history and current symptoms were thoroughly evaluated.
• Acupuncture sessions: needles were strategically placed at key points to improve blood flow, reduce inflammation, and alleviate nerve pressure.
• Adjunct therapy: Gentle stretching exercises and manual therapy supported the acupuncture sessions, helping to restore mobility and strengthen surrounding muscles.
• Lifestyle guidance: Recommendations on ergonomic adjustments and posture awareness were provided to prevent further strain.
After six weeks of combined acupuncture and physiotherapy, the patient reported significant pain reduction and improved mobility. The numbness in the leg subsided, and they were able to return to their research activities with minimal discomfort. Continued maintenance treatments and posture education ensured sustained progress.
Turtleneck Syndrome, commonly referred to as "text neck," is a modern health concern caused by the excessive forward head posture that occurs when looking down at smartphones, tablets, laptops, or other devices for extended periods. This posture places significant stress on the neck, shoulders, and upper back, leading to discomfort and long-term postural imbalances.
The main symptoms of turtleneck syndrome are as follows:
• Neck pain and stiffness
• Upper back and shoulder discomfort
• Frequent headaches
• Reduced range of motion in the neck
• Tingling or numbness in arms due to nerve compression
• Forward head posture and rounded shoulders
The causes of turtleneck syndrome include, but are not limited to, the following:
1. Prolonged Device Use: Spending hours daily on mobile devices or laptops without breaks strains the cervical spine.
2. Poor Posture: Slouching or leaning forward while sitting or standing contributes to misalignment.
3. Weak Muscles: Lack of core and neck muscle strength can worsen posture and increase strain.
4. Repetitive Strain: Continuous tilting of the head at a downward angle increases the load on neck muscles, which must support up to five times the head's weight in this position.
While it is easy to ignore this issue as a minor inconvenience at first, gradually it can develop into more serious issues such as chronic neck and shoulder pain. The persistent uneven pressure created by a turtleneck posture can also increase the risk of cervical disc herniation. Acupuncture under the IMEAST (Intramuscular Electroacupuncture Stimulation Treatment) protocol helps relieve pain and tension in the neck, shoulders, and upper back by improving blood flow, reducing inflammation, and promoting muscle relaxation. Along with stretching and ergonomic advice, this relief can help the patient retain correct posture, thereby relieving the syndrome.
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Treatment Case: 32-year-old female
The patient sought help complaining of chronic neck pain, stiffness, and occasional headaches, especially after prolonged work hours. She reported these symptoms as well as limited neck mobility starting roughly 2 months ago and unfortunately, she has been recently feeling upper back discomfort as well. The patient had long hours of desk work with poor posture (forward head, rounded shoulders), as well as mild stress from work deadlines as an accountant. There were no significant trauma or surgeries related to the cervical spine, and no underlying health issues, except mild hypertension, well-controlled with medication. The clinician noted forward head posture with rounded shoulders (classic turtleneck syndrome) as well as tenderness in the cervical paraspinal muscles and upper trapezius. There was indeed reduced cervical range of motion (especially in flexion and rotation) and hypertonicity in the SCM (sternocleidomastoid) and levator scapulae muscles.
Electroacupuncture was prescribed for her twice weekly for 4 weeks, followed by reassessment. Stimulation lasted 20-30 minutes per session, and mostly focused on the muscles of the neck, as well as a little bit on the shoulder area.
Week 1-2: Reduced neck stiffness and headaches. Improved sleep.
Week 3-4: Noticeable improvement in posture, enhanced range of motion, and less reliance on pain medication.
Follow-up: Incorporate Pilates-based strengthening to sustain results.
Osteoarthritis (OA) is the most common form of arthritis, often referred to as "wear-and-tear" arthritis. It occurs when the protective cartilage that cushions the ends of bones in joints gradually breaks down, leading to pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility. While OA can affect any joint, it most commonly impacts the knees, hips, hands, and spine. Osteoarthritis develops due to a combination of factors:
1. Age: The likelihood of developing OA increases with age as cartilage naturally degenerates over time.
2. Joint Overuse or Injury: Repeated stress on joints from work, sports, or past injuries can accelerate cartilage breakdown.
3. Genetics: Family history of OA may predispose individuals to the condition.
4. Obesity: Excess weight increases stress on weight-bearing joints, such as the knees and hips, accelerating cartilage damage.
5. Joint Misalignment: Poor joint alignment or structural abnormalities can increase wear and tear on cartilage.
6. Inflammation and Weak Muscles: Chronic low-grade inflammation and weak surrounding muscles can contribute to joint instability and degeneration.
The symptoms of osteoarthritis are varied and differ from person to person, but early indications include persistent joint pain, especially during or after movement as well as stiffness and rigidity after a period of inactivity. In addition, there can be any one of the following symptoms depending on the progression of the disease.
• Swelling or tenderness around the joint
• Reduced range of motion
• Grating sensation or cracking sounds when moving the joint
• Bone spurs, which may form around the affected joint
Acupuncture reduces pain and inflammation while improving blood circulation to affected joints. It also stimulates the body’s natural healing processes, helping to alleviate stiffness and discomfort. Furthermore, osteoarthritis patients often also suffer from overworked and tired muscles due to the additional work they have to do in order to produce movement. Acupuncture can be used in these cases to relieve and restore the overworked muscles of a person with osteoarthritis. While there is no cure for osteoarthritis, acupuncture can help delay the progression and allow the patient to maintain their daily activities.
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Treatment Case: 67-year-old male
Patient is a 67-year-old male complaining of chronic knee pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility due to osteoarthritis (OA) in both knees. He was diagnosed with osteoarthritis of both knees 3 years ago after noticing increased difficulty in getting around and moving in the morning. He had no major surgeries or comorbidities. The patient has a history of occasional back pain, but no history of major cardiovascular or neurological conditions. Currently mobile but experiences difficulty with activities like walking, climbing stairs, or standing for long periods. The patient is emotionally unsatisfied as after retirement, walking and hiking was their predominant activity.
The symptoms are dull, aching pain, intermittent sharp pain on movement (especially bending or walking). There is increased morning stiffness, lasting up to 30 minutes, as well as mild swelling around both knees. The patient experiences difficulty fully extending the knees; limited flexion. Acupuncture was done to reduce pain and inflammation in the knee joints. This can Improve range of motion and restore mobility by enhancing blood circulation to the knee area. The points selected were near the patella of the knee, below the knee cap, as well as above the knee in the flexion muscles. Initially, treatment was done two times a week, gradually down to once a week as the patient improved.
In the first few weeks, there was a reduction in knee pain and inflammation. Increased knee flexibility and decreased morning stiffness. There was also an enhanced ability to perform daily activities. The patient noted that while it took about an hour and a half or more to “get going” in the morning, it gradually shortened to about 30 minutes. After about a month of continued treatment, there was greater improved joint mobility, reduced reliance on pain medication, and maintained function. The patient has recently tried doing a short walk in the neighborhood and did not note any pain, although his form and speed is not what it was before. Given that the patient is relatively healthy aside from osteoarthritis and has responded well to acupuncture in the past (if applicable), the prognosis is generally favorable. However, osteoarthritis is a chronic condition, so long-term maintenance of treatments may be necessary to prevent further joint deterioration.
Lateral and medial epicondylitis, commonly known as tennis elbow and golfer's elbow, respectively, are conditions that cause pain and inflammation around the elbow joint due to overuse of the forearm muscles and tendons. Despite their nicknames, these conditions are not limited to athletes and can affect anyone who performs repetitive arm, wrist, or hand motions.
• Lateral Epicondylitis (Tennis Elbow): Pain is centered on the outer (lateral) side of the elbow, caused by overuse of the extensor muscles that straighten the wrist and fingers.
• Medial Epicondylitis (Golfer's Elbow): Pain occurs on the inner (medial) side of the elbow, caused by overuse of the flexor muscles that bend the wrist and fingers.
The cause of both lateral epicondylitis is primarily overuse. Activities involving repetitive wrist or arm movements, such as tennis, golf, painting, typing, or manual labor, can lead to tiny tears in the tendons around the elbow. With overuse, we know that we are more likely to feel tired and have poor posture when executing the same movements. So poor posture or incorrect techniques during physical activities, such as improper gripping or swinging in sports, also increase strain on the tendons and increase the likelihood of injury. Lastly, we should note that tendons naturally lose flexibility and strength with age, making them more prone to injury in people aged 30–50.
The most common symptoms of lateral and medial epicondylitis include the following:
• Pain or burning sensation around the elbow, which may radiate to the forearm or wrist.
• Weak grip strength, making it difficult to hold or lift objects.
• Stiffness and tenderness around the elbow joint.
• Worsening pain during activities like lifting, gripping, twisting, or typing.
• Swelling or mild inflammation in severe cases.
At Korean Acupuncture & Wellness Clinic, treatment of lateral and medial epicondylitis is focused on first and foremost restoring the function of the affected muscles. In cases of overuse, the microscopic fibers that compose a muscle are contracted and lose their flexibility. This leads to stiffness and pain when a patient tries to use that muscle during movement. Acupuncture treatment according to the IMEAST (Intramuscular Electroacupuncture Stimulation Treatment) targets the specific muscles, tendons, and ligaments that are injured to reduce pain, alleviate inflammation, and promote blood flow to damaged tendons, accelerating the healing process.
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Treatment Case: 42-year-old female
The patient is a WFH office worker and avid racquetball and badminton player. She complains of pain and tenderness in the inner side of the right elbow, exacerbated by repetitive movements (e.g., typing, lifting, and playing any sports). She had been diagnosed with medial epicondylitis by a physiotherapist approximately 3 months ago. She initially presented with dull, aching pain located on the medial (inner) side of the right elbow, with occasional sharp pains during specific movements. She particularly noted that forward swings while playing sports as well as overhead shots gave her the most discomfort.
Upon examination, there was sensitivity over the medial epicondyle and along the flexor tendons of the forearm. There was also mild stiffness and weakness in the forearm, particularly after activity. The patient expressed distress because she now had difficulty gripping objects tightly without pain or discomfort. This not only kept her from playing sports but also made it difficult for her to perform tasks around the house. Acupuncture treatment according to the IMEAST (Intramuscular Electroacupuncture Stimulation Treatment) was done for this patient, focusing on the flexor muscles of the forearm as well as certain other points in the triceps and extensor muscles.
After two weeks of biweekly treatment, there was significant reduction in elbow pain, improved range of motion, and decreased tenderness over the medial epicondyle. The patient noted an improved ability to perform daily tasks and she was able to do her stretching routine with little pain, although she could not return to sports. After another month of biweekly and weekly treatment, there was restoration of functional strength in the forearm muscles, and the patient returned to full activity without significant discomfort. However, the patient was advised to incorporate a better warm-up routine before beginning intense sports activities and possibly undergo personal strength training so that her body can better handle the impact of regular high-intensity activity.
Plantar fasciitis is an inflammation of the plantar fascia, a thick band of tissue that runs along the bottom of your foot, connecting your heel bone to your toes. This condition is one of the most common causes of heel pain, particularly in people who are on their feet for long periods or who engage in activities like running or high-impact sports.
The hallmark symptom of plantar fasciitis is sharp heel pain, especially when you first get out of bed in the morning or after prolonged periods of sitting. As you start moving, the pain often decreases, but it may return after long periods of standing or walking.
Other symptoms can include:
• Pain that worsens after exercise or activity (but not during)
• Stiffness and discomfort in the heel
• Swelling or tenderness at the bottom of the foot
Plantar fasciitis can be caused by various factors, including:
• Overuse or repetitive stress on the foot, such as from running, jumping, or walking on hard surfaces
• Foot structure issues, like flat feet, high arches, or abnormal gait patterns
• Tight calf muscles or Achilles tendon
• Improper footwear, such as shoes that lack arch support or cushioning
• Being overweight, which puts additional pressure on the feet
At Korean Acupuncture & Wellness, we offer personalized treatment plans to relieve pain, reduce inflammation, and restore your foot's function. Electroacupuncture treatment loosens the thickened fascia and contracted muscles that is the root cause of the pain. Cupping therapy also helps induce circulation to the area and encourage capillary vessel growth so as to help the natural healing mechanism of the body. While plantar fasciitis cases vary greatly in severity, the prognosis is generally excellent for recovery following a 5-session treatment plan.
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Treatment Case: 62-year-old man
This patient is the owner of an architectural firm, and often goes around foot to different construction sites to oversee projects. Roughly 3 years ago, he started feeling pain on the medial side of his feet and also under the foot. The pain was worse on the left side. There is no history of trauma to the foot. The patient has no underlying health issues other than some mild hypertension. Upon examination, other possible conditions such as Achilles tendinopathy, stress fractures, or tarsal tunnel syndrome were ruled out, although there was some tenderness in the overworked calf muscles. The patient found it difficult to walk around sites without pain and discomfort.
The patient was treated with acupuncture as well as cupping to break up the accumulated adhesions in the foot and increase circulation to the area. While the first two sessions did not produce much relief, the patient noted a decrease in pain and discomfort after the third session. The patient also diligently did the stretching exercises prescribed of the plantar fascia and calf. He was able to walk around his project sites with no pain and just mild discomfort after five sessions. While he does consistently come in for maintenance appointments, especially after many trips, he reports that his symptoms are mostly resolved.
ACL sprain/tear is a partial or complete tearing of the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) of the knee. ACL is the primary (~85%) restraint to limit anterior translation of the tibia. The anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) is thus one of the key ligaments in the knee, providing stability and support during movement. It connects the thigh bone (femur) to the shin bone (tibia) and helps control back-and-forth motion.
An ACL sprain or tear occurs when the ligament is overstretched or torn, often due to sudden changes in direction, stopping abruptly, or landing awkwardly from a jump. These injuries are common in high-impact sports like basketball, soccer, and skiing, but they can also occur during everyday activities if the knee is twisted or stressed.
The symptoms of an ACL sprain/tear are as follows:
• A loud "pop" sound or sensation at the time of injury.
• Immediate swelling and pain in the knee.
• Difficulty bearing weight or walking.
• A feeling of instability or the knee "giving out" during movement.
ACL injuries are classified into three grades:
• Grade 1 Sprain: Mild stretching of the ligament, causing minimal damage.
• Grade 2 Sprain (Partial Tear): The ligament is partially torn, leading to some instability.
• Grade 3 Sprain (Complete Tear): The ligament is completely torn, causing significant instability and loss of knee function.
The general measures to deal with ACL sprain/tear include crutches, braces, tensor, and kinesiology tape. Acupuncture can help with recovery of ACL sprain/tear by improving the function of muscles that allow movement of the knee as well as increasing circulation and healing of the tissue and ligaments around the knee.
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Treatment-Case 1: 32-year-old woman
The patient is a hard-working manager of a marketing firm, who enjoys tennis and other activities. A few weeks ago, she twisted her right knee while pivoting to hit a backhand shot. She heard a "pop" and experienced immediate pain and swelling. She underwent an MRI and was diagnosed with grade 2 ACL sprain and was discharged after emergency measures. Afterward, she rested and took some pain medication, but it has been hard for her to recover mobility and function of the lower limbs. Currently, she experiences some mild pain in the right knee, especially with weight-bearing activities. There is still some mild swelling and stiffness in the joint, and she experiences difficulty in bending the knee fully.
The treatment focused on control of inflammation and pain of the knee, as well as improving the function of the tendons of the quadriceps femoris, which moves the knee. The patient came in for regular biweekly sessions of acupuncture under the IMEAST (Intramuscular Electroacupuncture Stimulation Treatment). The patient was also instructed to continue the isometric exercises and stretching she was first discharged with. Early improvements in pain and swelling were seen within the first two weeks, with progressive gains in strength and stability by the sixth week. While recovery was relatively slow due to the critical nature of her injury, she was able to return to tennis after eight weeks of regular treatment.
Iliotibial band (IT band) tendinopathy is a common overuse injury that affects the thick band of connective tissue running along the outer side of your thigh. The IT band extends from the hip to just below the knee, helping stabilize the knee joint during movement. When the IT band becomes irritated or inflamed due to repetitive friction or strain, it can lead to pain and discomfort, particularly around the outer knee.
This condition, often referred to as IT band syndrome, is common among runners, cyclists, and athletes involved in repetitive leg movements, but it can also affect non-athletes due to improper biomechanics or muscle imbalances.
The symptoms may include the following:
• Sharp or burning pain on the outer side of the knee, especially during or after physical activity.
• Tenderness or swelling near the knee.
• A feeling of tightness along the outer thigh.
• Pain that worsens with repetitive activities like running, cycling, or going up and down stairs.
Several factors can contribute to IT band tendinopathy, including:
• Overuse: Repeated bending and straightening of the knee during activities like running or cycling.
• Muscle Imbalances: Weakness or tightness in the hip, glute, or thigh muscles.
• Poor Biomechanics: Misalignment in the hips, knees, or feet.
• Improper Training: Rapid increases in activity level, poor footwear, or lack of stretching.
IT band tendinopathy can greatly affect the quality of life of patients as they are often unable to fully participate in sports, exercise, and other daily activities. While this can be a cause of distress, the prognosis for IT band tendinopathy is generally good with sustained and regular care. Most patients report a noticeable improvement within a couple weeks after starting treatment, and many are able to resume some limited form of their former routine within a month.
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Treatment Case 1: 42-year-old woman
This patient is a massage therapist who is an avid hiker, cyclist, and all round athlete on her own time. On one rainy day, she was riding her bike when she hit a patch of slippery ground. Her bike slid across uncontrollably, and she attempted to stop it by bending her knees forcefully to the ground. While she did not fall or get injured, she reported pain in her knees and thighs afterward. There was excruciating pain when trying to get up from sitting, or when using her foot to push anything, such as when she was cycling. The patient’s IT band as well as the thigh muscles in the front were treated via the IMEAST (Intramuscular Electroacupuncture Stimulation Treatment) protocol for a total of 7 sessions over a month. After the first session, the patient reported that the intensity of pain went down to a 5.5 from a 7. Continuing biweekly sessions further decreased the pain to a 2 overall. The patient still felt some discomfort after resuming her mountain biking, but could recover with self-care that was prescribed to her.
A hamstring strain is an injury to the group of muscles located at the back of your thigh, known as the hamstrings. These muscles—biceps femoris, semitendinosus, and semimembranosus—are responsible for bending the knee and extending the hip. A strain occurs when these muscles are overstretched or torn, often during activities that involve sudden or powerful movements like sprinting, jumping, or abrupt changes in direction. Hamstring strains are common among athletes but can also affect anyone engaging in physical activity, particularly if the muscles are tight, weak, or fatigued.
The symptoms of hamstring strain may include the following:
• Sudden, sharp pain at the back of the thigh during activity.
• Swelling, bruising, or tenderness in the affected area.
• Difficulty walking, bending the knee, or straightening the leg.
• Muscle weakness or a "pulling" sensation in the thigh.
• In severe cases, a noticeable tear or "popping" sensation at the time of injury.
Hamstring strains typically result from:
Overstretching: When the muscle fibers are forced beyond their normal range of motion.
Overloading: When the muscles are subjected to excessive force during activities like sprinting or jumping.
Muscle Imbalances: Weak or tight hamstrings relative to other leg muscles, such as the quadriceps.
Poor Warm-Up: Inadequate preparation before physical activity increases the risk of injury.
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Treatment Case 1: 24-year-old male
The patient is a college soccer player, who sustained a hamstring strain in their right leg during a soccer match two weeks ago. The patient reported 6/10 on the pain scale, especially during stretching and activity. The location of the pain was the posterior thigh, primarily in the mid to upper hamstring region. The patient also complained of restricted range of motion during hip flexion and knee extension. Upon palpation, there was some mild swelling and tenderness along the hamstring muscle belly.
Treatment was done in order to reduce pain and inflammation, promote circulation and tissue repair, and restore flexibility and strength in the hamstring. The patient was treated twice a week for the first two weeks, then once a week for the next four weeks.
After three treatments, the patient reported that the pain was now reduced to 1/10. While there was still some restriction of motion on thigh and hip extension, other movements presented no difficulties. The patient returned to light soccer practice with a focus on injury prevention, increasing warmups and stretching after practice. After the eight treatment, the patient reported that his symptoms were almost gone, and was discharged.
Treatable conditions with Acupuncture
Neurosis refers to mental or physical symptoms caused by psychological factors, distinguishing it from more severe mental disorders as the person's ability to recognize reality remains intact. The primary symptoms of neurosis include emotional issues such as anxiety, stress, fear, obsessive thoughts and behaviors, and depression. While neurosis can disrupt daily life, it does not involve severe psychiatric symptoms like delusions or hallucinations, and the individual is often aware of their condition to some extent.
Major Symptoms of Neurosis:
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Anxiety: A state of excessive worry and fear that affects daily life.
Obsessions and Compulsions: Repetitive, irrational thoughts and behaviors aimed at relieving these thoughts.
Depression: A persistent low mood, often accompanied by feelings of helplessness and lack of motivation.
Phobias: Irrational fears of specific situations or objects.
Somatic Symptoms: Physical symptoms such as headaches, stomachaches, or dizziness caused by neurosis.
Causes of Neurosis:
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Neurosis can develop due to various factors, including:
Genetic Factors: A family history of neurosis increases the likelihood of developing the condition.
Environmental Factors: Childhood trauma, high-stress environments, or constant psychological pressure can trigger neurosis.
Personality Traits: Individuals with perfectionistic tendencies or those who exert excessive self-control may be more susceptible to neurosis.
Psychological Trauma: Traumatic events or significant life changes can lead to the onset of neurosis.
Treatment of Neurosis from a Traditional Korean Medicine Perspective:
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In traditional Korean medicine, neurosis is seen as a result of imbalances in the body and disruptions in the flow of Qi and blood (氣血). Treatment involves adjusting these imbalances through acupuncture and herbal medicine, taking into account both general and individual physiological factors.
Treatment Case 1: 67-year-old Japanese Woman
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This patient, who was undergoing outpatient care after gallstone surgery, reported feeling physically exhausted, anxious, and restless, with frequent negative and worrisome thoughts. She also mentioned experiencing dizziness, making her unable to go out alone. Additionally, she had a lack of appetite, a tendency toward constipation, and despite sleeping for 7 hours, she never felt well-rested, leading to constant fatigue. She often felt anxious easily, was reluctant to move, had a bitter taste in her mouth, frequently woke up in the early morning, and constantly felt chest tightness. Since frequent visits were not possible, herbal medicine treatment was initiated. After taking the prescribed herbs for one week, she reported significant improvement overall, although some anxiety and discomfort in the upper abdomen remained. After taking the medicine for another two weeks, she felt lighter, her sleep quality improved, and most of her negative thoughts and anxiety had disappeared. She decided to take another two weeks of medicine, and treatment was concluded.
Insomnia disorders can be categorized as follows:
Neurotic Insomnia: Related to neuroses such as anxiety and depression.
Psychotic Insomnia: Stemming from emotional disorders, schizophrenia, or other psychiatric conditions.
Substance-Induced Insomnia: Caused by drug or alcohol dependency.
Organic Insomnia: Due to structural brain disorders.
Insomnia in Dementia: Often observed in elderly patients with dementia.
Physical Factor-Induced Insomnia: Related to infections, pain, endocrine disorders, etc.
Environmental Factor-Induced Insomnia: Triggered by environmental changes or disruptions.
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Insomnia is not an isolated condition but rather a symptom that arises from underlying causes. The key to treatment lies in accurately identifying and addressing these root causes, a principle shared by both modern Western medicine and traditional Eastern medicine. It's important to avoid the overuse of sleep-inducing medications without proper consideration. Medications for insomnia are typically prescribed based on symptoms such as difficulty falling asleep, staying asleep, or waking up too early. Currently, benzodiazepine derivatives are the most commonly prescribed drugs for insomnia, though other medications may also be used.From the perspective of traditional Korean medicine, sleep disorders, particularly insomnia, are believed to be closely related to the liver's function and the interaction between the liver and the kidneys. The condition of the heart's fire (심화) and liver's fire (간화) must also be carefully assessed to determine the appropriate treatment approach.
Relationship Between Etiology and Symptoms:
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Sudden incidents or minor worries causing insomnia are often attributed to Heart Deficiency (심허).
Excessive mental activity or unresolved excitement from the day can result in insomnia due to Heart Fire Hyperactivity (심화왕성).
Aging, chronic illnesses, or cold conditions may cause insomnia, often indicating Kidney Yang Deficiency (신양허) or Kidney Yin Deficiency (신음허), depending on severity.
Aging, mental exhaustion, physical overwork, post-surgery, or anemia-related insomnia is often linked to Heart Blood Deficiency (심혈허) or Heart and Gallbladder Qi Deficiency (심담기허) and sometimes Spleen and Kidney Deficiency (비신허).
Stress and hypertension-related insomnia may be due to Spleen Deficiency (비허) or Heart and Spleen Yang Deficiency (심비양허).
Chronic stress and excessive mental strain often cause insomnia due to Liver Qi Stagnation (간기울결), Liver Fire (간화), or the production of Phlegm Dampness (담음).
Overeating, chronic gastrointestinal disorders, or inherent stomach weakness can lead to insomnia due to Stomach Qi Deficiency (위기부족).
Other pathological factors, such as Qi Stagnation (기의 정체), Phlegm, Phlegm Dampness, or Blood Stasis (혈어), can also contribute to insomnia. Therefore, treating the underlying condition is essential.
In conclusion, traditional Korean medicine emphasizes treating the root cause of insomnia, aiming to restore the balance between the body's various systems.
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Treatment Case 1: 23-year-old male
He graduated from university in March and started working in April. He said that he was quite mentally exhausted from the training throughout the month. During the holiday in May, he took sufficient rest. However, perhaps due to his irregular lifestyle, after the holiday ended and he started working, he became unable to sleep. Additionally, he experienced difficulty falling asleep, a lack of restful sleep, feelings of depression, chest tightness, loss of appetite, nausea, and tension in the rectus abdominis with fullness in the chest and hypochondriac regions. His tongue appeared reddish, and his pulse was tense. After starting herbal medicine treatment, his appetite and sleep improved just a week after taking the prescribed medication.
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Treatment Case 2: 45-year-old female
For several months, she had been struggling to sleep at night. Usually, it takes her about 2 to 3 hours of lying in bed with the lights off to finally fall asleep. Even when she does sleep, she wakes up every 1 to 2 hours. She had been prescribed sleeping pills but did not want to take them. She also mentioned being very sensitive to cold. Due to her severe insomnia, we started acupuncture twice a week along with herbal medicine treatment. In the first week, there was no significant change, but by the second week, it took less than an hour for her to fall asleep, and the number of times she woke up during the night decreased from 4-5 times to 2 times. After four weeks of treatment, she found it easy to fall asleep, and she no longer woke up during the night.
Generalized Anxiety Disorder, or GAD, is among the most common psychiatric conditions encountered in medical institutions, alongside depression. In modern society, which requires adaptation to diverse values and rapid changes, and where individuals are often exposed to acute and chronic stress—both directly and indirectly—the prevalence of anxiety disorders is understandably high due to these environmental factors. According to a report by the World Health Organization (WHO), in 2015, the global prevalence of anxiety disorders was 3.6%, with an estimated total of 264 million individuals suffering from these disorders.
Research to date indicates that anxiety disorders are associated with increased comorbidity of other mental and physical illnesses, higher healthcare costs, and psychosocial impairments. This underscores the necessity for early diagnosis and prompt treatment of anxiety disorders. The primary challenge in dealing with anxiety is the variety of symptoms associated with anxiety disorders. According to DSM-5 criteria, anxiety disorders include separation anxiety disorder, selective mutism, specific phobias, social anxiety disorder, panic disorder, and generalized anxiety disorder. This variety in presentation can lead to diagnostic errors. Moreover, the psychological symptoms are often not confined to specific episodes but are shaped by a complex interplay of various factors, including personality traits and the surrounding social environment, making diagnosis and management challenging in clinical settings. As a result, there has been a continuous demand for the development of alternative means of dealing with GAD in supplementary and alternative medical institutions. The characteristic of dialectical diagnosis in traditional medicine may actually serve as a strength in diagnosing and treating anxiety disorders, which exhibit such symptom diversity. In traditional Korean medicine, diseases are understood from the perspective of the unity of body and mind. The emotions of anxiety and fear are closely related to the organs such as the heart (심), liver (간), kidneys (신), and gallbladder (담), which respectively govern certain mental and psychological function.
Individuals born with a constitution that has weak organ functions tend to be more fearful or timid, experiencing greater anxiety and worry than others. Therefore, Traditional Korean Medicine seeks to treat anxiety disorders by assessing the deficiency and excess of the organs, providing support to the weaker organ energies, or correcting imbalances. This may take place through herbal medicine which regulates the function of the affected organs, acupuncture, or moxibustion.
Acupuncture, according to traditional Korean medicine, stimulates acupuncture points to regulate the flow of meridians and balance the organs, thereby stabilizing the body and mind. Recent research indicates the following physiological effects which may be helpful for an anxiety patient.
• increases the secretion of endorphins in the blood.
• decreases the secretion of cortisol, a stress hormone, alleviating feelings of anxiety.
• reduce the brain's stress response and stabilize the overactive sympathetic nervous system, improving anxiety symptoms.
The effects of acupuncture in stabilizing the body and mind are already detailed in texts such as Donguibogam (동의보감) and acupuncture experience manuals. Studies conducted on various ethnic groups around the world have also verified the effectiveness of acupuncture in treating anxiety disorders. The effectiveness is especially demonstrated in modern day Korea, where people have long work hours and stressful lives. Traditional Korean Medicine is an important reason why Korean people are able to work hard and play hard.
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Treatment Case 1:
This patient is a woman in her late 40s, with a fair complexion and average build. Ten years ago, her husband passed away from a sudden heart attack, leaving her to raise her son alone. Her son moved away for college a year ago, after which she began experiencing these symptoms. Two weeks ago, after a minor stressful event, her symptoms intensified to the point where they began to interfere with her daily life. She is easily startled by small sounds, with persistent anxiety and insomnia. She suffers from frequent indigestion and dry mouth, chest tightness, and sensation of heat. She visited us, having already tried hormone therapy for possible menopause symptoms, but it had not helped. She also has been taking anti-anxiety medication from a psychiatrist as needed, with recent increases in frequency. She was diagnosed as having moderate depression (BDI-2: 14) and high anxiety levels (STAI X 1/2: 66/58). Her pulse was weak and tense, and her tongue appeared red with an especially red tip. Her abdomen was tense with several tender spots.
She was diagnosed with “Ganbi Disharmony Syndrome,” which relates to liver and digestive system issues, along with generalized anxiety disorder. The treatment plan included herbal medicine, acupuncture, moxibustion, oriental psychotherapy, and aromatherapy.After the second week, the patient felt emotionally relieved after expressing her pent-up feelings, though she was still easily startled and had intrusive thoughts. Physical symptoms like palpitations and indigestion slightly improved. After week six, her abdominal tension and constipation improved with a prescription adjustment, leading to better digestion and reduced palpitations. After week 10, she was less frequently startled in daily life. Her sleep improved, with fewer nighttime awakenings. After week 13, symptoms like palpitations, appetite, and digestion had improved. Dry mouth was much better, and she felt less tired and more energetic. Treatment concluded. The patient shared that she felt more relaxed and less rushed. She expressed satisfaction, realizing she had been feeling unnecessarily stressed and pressured.
Depression is the most common mental disorder and a serious condition that causes significant problems. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), over 264 million people worldwide reported experiencing depression in 2017, a figure that represents a 50% increase compared to 1990. In the 2019 Global Burden of Disease study, depression ranked 13th among the top 25 diseases, similar to the burden of diseases such as AIDS, liver cirrhosis, lung cancer, and headaches. The 2016 World Mental Health Survey indicated that depression had the highest burden among mental disorders.
Depression is characterized by feelings of sadness, emptiness, or irritability, accompanied by physical and cognitive changes that affect an individual's ability to function. It is marked by a depressed mood most of the day, a decrease in interest or pleasure in daily activities, and leads to clinically significant distress or impairment in social, occupational, or other important areas of functioning. Major depressive disorder is diagnosed when an individual experiences a depressed mood or a loss of interest or pleasure in activities for more than two weeks, along with at least four other depressive symptoms such as:
• Significant changes in sleep
• Changes in appetite and digestion
• Excessive fatigue
• Difficulties in concentration
• Rumination Suicidal thoughts
In traditional Korean medicine, there is a theory that “the mind and body are an inseparable whole,” which emphasizes the spiritual relationships inherent in the five internal organs and their respective functions. It also treats depression by regulating and strengthening the functions of these organs, thereby supporting mental function and stabilizing the autonomic nervous system. When using herbal medicine, various prescriptions are selectively employed based on the individual's constitution and the state of their depression. For instance, if there are severe symptoms of heat, strong emotions of anger, unstable mental states with palpitations, or severe insomnia or digestive disorders, the prescriptions will differ accordingly. Additionally, for emotional distress (hwa-byung), different prescriptions are provided based on individual constitutions. Other treatment methods include electrical acupuncture, ear acupuncture, and Sa-am acupuncture, as well as moxibustion, cupping therapy, manual therapy, and qigong therapy. Generally, rather than relying on a single treatment method, it is more effective to consider the underlying causes of the condition, symptoms, and psychological and environmental factors, and to combine various treatments.
The effectiveness of traditional Korean treatment for depression has already been demonstrated in various studies. Recently, the Irish daily newspaper "The Irish Times" reported that traditional Korean treatment can assist in the treatment of postpartum depression. In this article, acupuncturist Hannah O’Connell stated, “Acupuncture plays a significant role for mothers during pregnancy.” She recommended that mothers receive acupuncture once a week for 12 to 16 weeks, as it helps alleviate various symptoms that may arise three months post-pregnancy, and is a safe treatment that aids not only in treating postpartum depression but also in promoting lactation and addressing mastitis.
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Treatment Case 1:
The patient is a woman in her early 60s with a warm and kind appearance. She visited with her daughter, but she looked troubled and downcast. Over the past 2–3 years, she has experienced increasing low moods, feelings of fatigue, depression, and frequent forgetfulness. The patient expressed resentment toward her husband, with whom she shares a very different personality. She describes herself as outgoing, optimistic, and easygoing, while her husband is diligent, meticulous, and critical, often nagging about household tasks. She struggled with chronic illness when she was younger, including surgery for uterine cancer in her 30s. About 2–3 years ago, her dental health worsened due to periodontal disease, leading to tooth loss. She is about to get dentures but feels self-conscious about looking older. This has affected her confidence, especially when others comment on her appearance. She feels increasingly disconnected socially, often feeling isolated and burdened by a sense of aging and worthlessness. Memory issues have also intensified, and she finds it hard to focus.
The results of an Autonomic Nervous System Test indicated an imbalance, with lower sympathetic activity and higher parasympathetic activity. Her pulse was weak, her tongue was somewhat red and dry with minimal coating, and her face appeared somewhat pale. The diagnosis was “Heart and Spleen Blood Deficiency” (심비혈허), which affects her emotions, resulting in depression. The treatment plan included herbal medicine, acupuncture, moxibustion, and oriental psychotherapy. After week 2, she didn’t notice major changes but felt that looking at a “gratitude” plaque she had hung up at home helped her calm down when she felt irritable. After week 4, she initially doubted whether the treatments would help, but now feels brighter, experiences less depression, and gets less annoyed with her husband’s nagging. Her usual sense of fatigue has lessened, and she is eager to resume volunteer and church activities. After week 8, with her schedule busy with social and church activities, she now has less time for treatment, so the focus moved to just herbal medicine. After week 10, Recently, she and her husband shared a good laugh over how they had both aged. She noticed her husband, typically reserved, also laughed, which was unusual for him. She feels less resentment toward him and notices he nags less, making her feel more at ease. After week 12, while she still occasionally feels down when reminded of her aging appearance or memory lapses, she’s now more accepting of these feelings. Initially, she looked troubled and sad, but with each session, her expression brightened, and she smiled more. Her depression lessened, thanks to her naturally optimistic personality, helping her recover more quickly. She now feels at peace with the changes that come with age and has a much-improved relationship with her husband.
ADHD, or Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, refers to a disease with a persistent inability to concentrate on tasks that the individual finds undesirable, such as studying or doing homework, it does not necessarily mean an inability to concentrate on tasks that are naturally enjoyable for the individual such as their hobby. Some parents might say their child has excellent concentration, but this typically refers to their ability to focus on activities they enjoy, such as playing games. Attention deficit can simply be described as distractibility, along with a consistent decrease in the ability to maintain focus. In addition to attention deficits, ADHD patients may also exhibit hyperactivity, irritability, and difficulty controlling impulses or anger. Clinically, it is common for attention deficit and hyperactivity control issues to present together in a combined type of ADHD.
Recently, there has been an increasing trend in children, adolescents, and adults seeking medical treatment for symptoms of ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder). While ADHD has a higher prevalence in children and adolescents, some individuals continue to experience symptoms into adulthood. It was once believed that ADHD would naturally improve with age; however, studies that followed ADHD children over the long term have shown that about 70% continue to exhibit symptoms into adolescence, and 3-5% transition into adult ADHD. In the past, the causes of ADHD were often attributed to poor parenting or environmental factors; however, with advancements in neuroscience, there is now a prevailing view that it is caused by genetic and neurological factors. Research indicates a genetic predisposition, and certain conditions during pregnancy, such as trauma, prematurity, perinatal asphyxia, difficult delivery, head trauma, or meningitis, are associated with higher rates of ADHD. Neurofunctional studies have shown findings such as decreased production and secretion of neurotransmitters and reduced blood flow to the frontal lobes. Therefore, in treating ADHD, it is important to not only improve symptoms but also enhance the inherent neurological environment.
Upon visiting a traditional Korean medicine clinic, various ADHD assessments may be conducted, including constitutional examinations, developmental assessments, comprehensive attention tests, in-depth interviews, and pulse diagnostics. This approach helps to identify psychological and environmental causes, inherited constitutional factors, and issues related to the child's brain growth and development, aiming to treat both the visible symptoms and their underlying causes. In traditional medicine, this is referred to as treating both the root and the branch. Rather than merely targeting temporary symptom relief through medication, a more fundamental treatment focuses on correcting the neurological causes that trigger the child's behavioral problems, supporting brain growth and development, and enabling the child's brain to function effectively in terms of attention, concentration, and behavioral regulation. Specific treatment methods include:
1. Herbal Medicine
‣ Customized herbal prescriptions based on symptoms and constitution to regulate symptoms and support the balance of internal organs and brain development.
2. Acupuncture Therapy
‣ Regulates the balance of the organs through acupuncture and stimulates brain acupuncture points to improve blood circulation in the nervous system.
3. Qigong and Self-Regulation Training
‣ Training to increase signals from the brain when calm, while suppressing signals that arise during excitement, drowsiness, or fogginess.
4. Ear Seed Treatment
‣ Ear seeds help modulate the function of the many nerves located around the ear, and help the patient self-regulate their executive function.
Understanding the constitutional, genetic, neurological, and neurochemical causes of ADHD, and considering the potential impact on a child's future life, highlights the necessity for proactive early treatment rather than leaving ADHD children to hope that they will simply outgrow it. Additionally, ADHD patients may experience associated issues such as tic disorders, anxiety disorders, depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder, and learning disabilities due to various problems in the nervous system. Thus, plans for prevention and treatment of these aspects should also be developed.
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Treatment Case 1:
The patient is a man in his mid-30s with a sturdy build. He came for treatment because he often feels depressed, and when he argues with his wife, he becomes uncontrollably angry and throws things. He has difficulty sitting in one place for long and frequent anger, leading to throwing objects. Though he manages at work, he often paces back and forth on the rooftop when stressed. Since childhood, he has struggled with focus issues and was often scolded for it in school. He never sought treatment, but his worsening relationship with his wife led her to suggest he come in.
The patient describes himself as quiet and detailed, with a small social circle. He is dedicated to his family, mainly moving between work and home. He finds home life increasingly stressful since his wife became more sensitive after their child was born, and he struggles to manage his emotions without a healthy outlet. The Autonomic Nervous System Test suggested slightly elevated sympathetic nervous system activity; blood pressure and pulse were normal. His pulse was rapid and tense, and his tongue was dark red with significant cracks, indicating heat and stress. Due to his tendency toward emotional outbursts and a strong upper body build, his diagnosis included Liver Qi Stagnation (간기울결) and Liver Yang Rising (간양상항). The treatment plan included herbal medicine, acupuncture, moxibustion, and oriental psychotherapy. The herbal medicine was prescribed to release liver stagnation and reduce heat. Acupuncture focused on acupuncture points to ease liver stagnation and heat, with electro-acupuncture and moxibustion therapy. He came in once a week for treatment. The patient was initially reluctant since he wasn’t strongly motivated to seek treatment himself. However, with encouragement, he agreed to continue to work on improving both his relationship with his wife and his focus issues at work. After 1 week, his wife reported that he seemed noticeably calmer. Over the following two weeks, he had no major emotional outbursts or incidents of breaking things. He felt less heat and thirst, and he found it easier to talk about difficult emotions. After week 4, He had two minor arguments with his wife but avoided extreme outbursts. He was now able to step away briefly to cool down and return for a calmer conversation. After week 8, arguments with his wife had reduced, and they took a trip together to strengthen their relationship, which helped them communicate more openly. His anxiety at work decreased, and he could now sit and focus on tasks for over an hour.
Initially, the patient wasn’t very cooperative, making treatment challenging. Over time, however, he noticed a reduction in fatigue and improved his relationship with his wife, which motivated him to continue actively participating in treatment. He also felt more able to concentrate at work, which increased his overall satisfaction. His wife was also pleased with his progress.
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is a mental disorder characterized by recurring re-experiencing of traumatic events, such as actual or threatened death, serious injury, or sexual assault, following exposure to such traumatic incidents. Symptoms include nightmares, feelings of numbness or detachment, indifference toward others, lack of interest in the environment, anhedonia, helplessness, and associations related to the trauma. PTSD was classified under anxiety disorders in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fourth Edition (DSM-IV-TR); however, it has been reclassified as a Trauma and Stressor Related Disorder in the Fifth Edition (DSM-5). Although the cause of PTSD is clear, the manifestations of the disorder can vary based on the nature of the traumatic event, the time elapsed since the event, and individual factors such as vulnerability and resilience. Additionally, if the experiences of trauma survivors are not addressed sensitively, there is a risk of re-traumatization, making diagnosis and treatment challenging.
Traditional Korean Medicine understands PTSD through a holistic lens, viewing it as a condition that arises from imbalances within the body’s systems, particularly in relation to Qi (vital energy), blood, and organ health. TKM emphasizes the role of specific organ systems, particularly the heart, liver, spleen, and kidneys. The heart is associated with emotions and mental clarity, the liver with the smooth flow of Qi and emotions, the spleen with nourishment and blood production, and the kidneys with resilience and vitality. PTSD is often seen as a result of stagnant or deficient Qi and blood. Emotional trauma can lead to stagnation of liver Qi and deficiency of heart blood, resulting in symptoms like anxiety, irritability, insomnia, and emotional numbness. TCM also considers the balance of Yin and Yang. A deficiency in Yin can lead to excess Yang, causing heat in the body, which may manifest as anxiety or agitation. After a practitioner has understood how PTSD has come to affect you, they will employ a number of modalities in order to restore your body and mind’s balance.
1. Herbal Medicine:
Customized herbal formulas are used to nourish the heart, calm the mind, and promote the flow of Qi. Herbs may include:
‣ Suan Zao Ren (Sour Jujube Seed): Nourishes heart blood and calms the spirit.
‣ Bai Zi Ren (Biota Seed): Nourishes the heart and calms the mind.
‣ He Huan Pi (Mimosa Bark): Relieves emotional distress and promotes relaxation.
2. Acupuncture:
Specific acupuncture points are targeted to help regulate the flow of Qi, calm the mind, and alleviate symptoms. Research indicates the acupuncture may modulate and regulate the body’s overactive sympathetic nervous system (“fight-or-flight response”).
3. Qi Gong and Mind-Body Techniques:
Practices such as Qi Gong, Tai Chi, and meditation are emphasized to help regulate the body’s energy, reduce stress, and promote relaxation.
4. Lifestyle and Dietary Recommendations:
TCM practitioners may suggest lifestyle changes that support emotional well-being, including stress management techniques, dietary adjustments to nourish blood and Qi, and practices that enhance overall health.
5. Therapeutic Massage (Tui Na):
This can be used to promote circulation, relieve tension, and enhance relaxation, addressing both physical and emotional symptoms.
In summary, TKM approaches PTSD by focusing on restoring balance within the body, nourishing the mind, and supporting the emotional and physical health of the individual. The treatments are tailored to each person’s unique constitution and symptoms, aiming to provide a comprehensive and holistic way to heal from trauma.
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Treatment Case 1:
This 40-year-old woman began experiencing these symptoms after a traumatic experience during an earthquake, when her building shook significantly. She was at home relaxing after dinner when she felt extreme fear as the building trembled. The symptoms persisted and eventually led her to seek treatment at the clinic. She is a mother of two in her early 40s. According to her husband, she is usually positive and cheerful. Since the earthquake, she has suffered from severe anxiety, insomnia, and heart palpitations. These physical symptoms intensified, and she has been on sick leave from work. Despite resting at home, her symptoms have not improved, and she has been emotionally unstable. She has difficulty falling asleep, experiences nightmares, and frequently wakes up, leading to severe insomnia. She feels constant anxiety, is easily startled by small noises, and has become irritable, often snapping at her husband and children. She avoids old or high-rise buildings due to anxiety. When she must enter such buildings, she feels extremely uneasy and cannot stay long, which significantly disrupts her daily life. Her heart rate was between 110–120 beats per minute. Other vital signs were within the normal range. Her tongue was red at the tip, with little coating. She reported a dry mouth, reduced appetite, but normal digestion. Her hands and feet were cold, though she felt heat in her chest. Her menstrual cycle was usually irregular. Due to the severe trauma, she developed disrupted circulation of Qi and blood, along with issues affecting the heart. Her diagnosis included Qi Stagnation with Blood Stasis (기울혈어어) and Heart Yin Deficiency (심음휴허). Based on this diagnosis and PTSD from a previous mental health practitioner, her treatment plan included herbal medicine, acupuncture, moxibustion, and meditation as part of oriental psychotherapy. The herbal medicine Initially focused on clearing stagnant blood to improve Qi and blood circulation. Later, prescriptions were adjusted to nourish the heart Yin and blood. Acupuncture focused on points that aid in clearing blood stasis and reducing tension, using electroacupuncture, heat therapy, moxibustion, and aromatherapy. She came in 1–2 times per week for treatment.
After two weeks, she reported reduced dryness in her mouth and chest tightness. She still experienced insomnia and heart palpitations, but physical symptoms were gradually improving. After week 4, she no longer felt chest tightness or heat, and heart palpitations had decreased by over half in both frequency and intensity. Her husband observed that her irritability and hypersensitivity were also lessening. After week 7, although her physical symptoms continued to improve, she still had difficulty entering old or tall buildings and felt discomfort at dusk. After week 9, physical symptoms only appeared when she thought about the earthquake, though they were less intense. She reported waking from nightmares about once every 2–3 days. After week 12, she rarely thought about the earthquake during the day, and physical symptoms were minimal. Though she still experienced flashbacks at dusk, they didn’t last as long. After week 16, she still occasionally had nightmares but was able to sleep through them. She began entering buildings she previously avoided and felt increasingly comfortable. After week 20, earthquake-related dreams almost disappeared. She still experienced slight anxiety at dusk, but it quickly faded as she distracted herself with other activities. She said she felt almost the same as she had before the earthquake.
In this case, the patient’s physical symptoms, combined with re-experiencing and avoidance behaviors, worsened her anxiety and overall symptoms. Initially, treatment focused on reducing blood stasis and stabilizing physical symptoms. Once her physical symptoms had improved and re-experiencing of the traumatic event subsided, she was gradually exposed to similar environments while practicing oriental psychotherapy and visualization techniques to control her anxiety and physical responses. After 6 months, she achieved near-complete recovery and continues to come in for monthly follow-up sessions.
Medical experts understand addiction as a complex interplay of biological, psychological, and social factors. Research indicates that genetic predisposition plays a significant role in addiction susceptibility. Certain genetic variations can affect how individuals respond to substances and their likelihood of developing addictive behaviors. Addiction alters the brain's reward system, particularly the release of neurotransmitters like dopamine. Substances can hijack this system, leading to increased cravings and compulsive behavior. Imaging studies show changes in brain structure and function in individuals with addiction, particularly in areas related to decision-making, impulse control, and emotional regulation. Regular use can lead to physical dependence, where the absence of the substance triggers withdrawal symptoms. Tolerance may also develop, requiring larger doses to achieve the same effect.
Many individuals with addiction also have co-occurring mental health disorders, such as anxiety, depression, or PTSD. Adverse childhood experiences, trauma, and chronic stress can increase the risk of addiction. These conditions can increase vulnerability to addiction as individuals may use substances as a coping mechanism. In Traditional Korean Medicine, the mechanism of addiction is understood as a negative interplay of multiple different biological systems. Once the powerful reward given by a particular substance or behavior is reinforced, the body’s self-regulating system is put into disarray. One organ system such as the Heart might be in overdrive in order to satisfy the addiction so as to deal with some mental trauma, while another organ system such as the Liver may be malfunctioning due to the high amount of processing and filtering it must complete. To rectify this pattern, practitioners believe that a multi-pronged approach is necessary: soothe down the overstimulated nervous system which seeks the reward, diminish the negative effects of withdrawal, and mentally lead the addicted person into a calmer state.
Unlike Western medicine, which mostly relies on pharmacological treatments for addiction therapy, traditional Korean medicine can leverage the efficacy of non-drug therapies like acupuncture as a strength. Therefore, in the context of increasing social phenomena such as smoking, alcohol, internet, smartphone, and gaming addictions, understanding the precise mechanisms through a Korean medicine approach could position it as a preferred option in societal recognition. Traditional Korean Medicine employs these specific methods to deal with addiction issues.
1. Ear acupuncture
Ear acupuncture treatment helps regulate the secretion of various neuroregulatory substances, such as beta-endorphins from the hypothalamus-pituitary axis and dopamine from the lateral septal nucleus, aiding in pain relief and addiction suppression
2. Herbal Medicine
customized herbal formulas can strengthen the organs involved, support detoxification, and alleviate anxiety or depression associated with addiction.
3. Emotional and Lifestyle Support
TKM also recognizes the importance of addressing emotional issues and encourages practices that foster emotional health and resilience
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Treatment Case 1:
The patient is a male, 24 years old. His symptoms began about a month before his visit, just after completing his mandatory military service. Although he had often played games before joining the military and even secretly charged in-game purchases on his parents’ account as a child, his gaming became more severe after discharge. He was spending entire days on mobile games, using his earnings from part-time jobs to pay for game content and gambling fees. He frequently stayed up all night at internet cafes, prioritizing gaming over real-life responsibilities. After discharge, he had promised his parents to resume school, graduate, and prepare for a job, but his motivation was low, leading to increased family conflict.According to his mother, Jin was typically gentle and introverted, rarely asserting his own opinions. His parents had divorced and were living separately, with his father, who had an explosive temper, often taking it out on the family. Jin experienced verbal abuse and violence frequently, which led to persistent depression and mood swings. Since his discharge, on days when he wasn’t working part-time, he would stay up all night gaming at internet cafes and then sleep during the day. Although he was attending university, he lacked motivation because he hadn’t been able to study his preferred major.
The results of the Autonomic Nervous System Test showed that his sympathetic nervous system was somewhat overactive, though his blood pressure and heart rate were within normal ranges. His pulse was tense, his tongue was a deep red color with a thin yellow coating, indicating a lot of internal heat. He often felt warmth in his body, especially in his arms. Due to the stress of his parents' divorce and his father's violence, Jin had accumulated unresolved feelings of depression and anger. Over time, this emotional blockage transformed into heat, causing Heart and Liver Excess Heat Syndrome. Gaming became his primary escape from reality, and after leaving the military, this dependency worsened. Based on this diagnosis, his treatment plan included herbal medicine, acupuncture, and moxibustion.
Herbal medicine was prescribed to cool down the heat in his heart and chest, relieving blocked energy caused by depression and anger, thereby promoting emotional stability and stress relief. Acupuncture and Moxibustion focused on areas that reduce heat in the heart and liver and stabilize his Qi and blood. He also received electroacupuncture, cupping, heat therapy, and moxibustion. He came for treatment 1–2 times per week. After week 2, Jin reported feeling relaxed and sleepy after treatment, and upon waking, he felt calm. He made efforts to reduce all-night gaming sessions at internet cafes and had limited his gaming time to 2-3 hours twice a week. He also promised to cut back on mobile gaming. After 3 Weeks, he started a new job with regular hours (8 a.m. to 5 p.m.) and decided to study for a certification exam. He drastically reduced mobile gaming and hardly played PC games that week. After 6 Weeks, Jin was working regularly and felt that keeping active helped clear his mind. Although he didn’t pass the certification exam, he was determined to try again. He set limits on his gaming, restricting it to 2 hours at home, and only visited an internet cafe once with friends. He stopped spending money on mobile games. After 8 Weeks, his life was becoming more structured, and he spent his free time socializing or resting rather than gaming. He reported that he hadn’t gamed at all that week. After 12 Weeks, realizing he was dissatisfied with his current job, he decided to pursue work in his field of study and started preparing for the certification exam again. He was too busy to game and didn’t feel stressed or uncomfortable without it.
After finishing his herbal treatment, he continued with weekly maintenance sessions, including acupuncture, moxibustion, and counseling. Although he didn’t pass his recent certification exam, he avoided falling back into gaming and instead went on a trip with friends. Jin has nearly stopped gaming altogether, especially mobile gaming, and is pleased with the time and money he has saved. He expressed gratitude for his mother’s and the clinic’s support during his difficult times and now feels motivated to make positive plans for his future, with a newfound sense of purpose.
Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) is a mental health condition marked by repetitive, unwanted thoughts (obsessions) and actions (compulsions). Common compulsive behaviors include washing hands, checking things repeatedly, and touching objects in a specific order. Obsessive thoughts often involve harmful, violent, or socially unacceptable ideas that can cause guilt or distress due to violating personal or societal morals. Patients usually recognize these thoughts as irrational and resist them. OCD may be suspected if a person experiences obsessions and compulsions for over an hour each day, interfering with daily life.
OCD can involve obsessions, compulsions, or both. Obsessive thoughts tend to cause anxiety or discomfort, while compulsive actions aim to neutralize that distress. People with OCD may want to stop these thoughts and actions but feel unable to, leading to discomfort and emotional pain. Sometimes, only obsessions or compulsions are present, though often, both appear. While compulsive actions may temporarily relieve anxiety, they usually increase it in the long term. The exact cause of OCD is unknown, though it is believed to result from a mix of genetic, environmental, and psychological factors. Recent research in medication and brain imaging suggests that OCD may relate to issues in specific brain circuits, which can improve with medication or behavioral therapy. OCD often starts in childhood or early adolescence and can sometimes be misdiagnosed as autism, general developmental disorders, or Tourette’s syndrome due to the similarity of some symptoms.
There are two main types of medications for treating OCD: Western medications and traditional herbal medicine. First, Western medications often make use of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) increase serotonin activity in nerve endings, which helps to suppress OCD symptoms. These medications are proven effective, but symptoms can return or withdrawal effects may occur if stopped suddenly, so any changes in dosage should be carefully managed with a specialist.
In traditional Korean medicine (TKM), OCD is classified into four main types, and treatment is tailored to each. The four types are: liver qi stagnation, heart-spleen deficiency, heart yin deficiency, and heart-gallbladder deficiency. OCD treatment in TKM prioritizes restoring brain function balance to alleviate psychological symptoms. Specific herbal medicines are prescribed based on the OCD type to stimulate brain vitality, and acupuncture is used to reduce overactive autonomic nerves and promote mental and physical relaxation. Combined with counseling, these treatments aim to stabilize and balance brain function, helping patients regain control over stress and environmental triggers, thereby returning to a healthier daily life.
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Treatment Case 1:
The patient was a 14 year old, shy young girl with difficulty making eye contact. She visited with obsessive behaviors as her main symptom. She spent a lot of time washing her hands and showering, checking repeatedly to ensure she was clean. She would also check her writing multiple times to see if it was correct, double-check if she had finished drinking water, and repeatedly put on and take off her clothes, all of which caused her distress. Her development was slightly delayed during early childhood, and she had difficulty making eye contact, for which she received about two months of play therapy. Her obsessive checking behavior started in the 5th grade and progressively worsened, leading to an OCD diagnosis in child psychiatry. Although she tried medication, it was discontinued due to a lack of significant improvement. Her symptoms intensified when she experienced issues with friends or stress, which also made it difficult for her to focus in class or make friends.
Examination showed that she struggled to complete the survey due to her checking behaviors, and her anxiety questionnaire was rated as moderate or higher. Her pulse was thin and fast, her tongue tip was red, and her abdomen was tense. She was diagnosed with excessive heat in the heart and liver (심간열성) and received herbal medicine, acupuncture, moxibustion, and TKM-based psychotherapy. Herbal medicine was prescribed, aimed at reducing heat in the heart and liver, improving circulation throughout the body, and promoting mental relaxation. Electroacupuncture and moxibustion were performed once a week. Used relaxation breathing and grounding techniques to relieve mental and physical tension.After two weeks, her mother noticed no significant change in her compulsive behaviors, but the girl felt slightly more at ease. After four weeks, her mother observed some improvement. While her symptoms were still intense during flare-ups, they were less frequent overall, with an average intensity of about 7-8 on a 10-point scale. After week 6, the frequency and intensity of her obsessive thoughts had decreased to 5-6 out of 10. She reported reduced checking behavior and less associated anxiety, especially with writing tasks. After week 10, her washing routines improved; she spent around 40 seconds on handwashing, down from over a minute, and could drink water without needing to check. After week 12, her symptoms had reduced to around 0-2 on a scale of 10, and she reported no major issues in daily life. After a month of maintenance treatment, her care was concluded.
Her repetitive behaviors previously slowed her school tasks and made it difficult to socialize during meals with friends. These issues improved, and her mother felt her daughter’s mood brightened as a result.
Treatable conditions with Acupuncture
Hives (urticaria) is an itchy skin condition characterized by recurring, raised, and swollen patches on the skin. When caused by a drug allergy, it’s typically referred to as a drug rash. When triggered by other allergies, such as reactions to certain foods, it’s simply called hives. Hives are often allergic in nature and are thought to result from an immune response, where histamines or similar substances are released, leading to superficial swelling in the capillaries of the skin.
Common food triggers include fish, bamboo shoots, spinach, dairy products, and nuts. Other types of hives can be caused by factors such as:
• Psychological stress (psychogenic hives)
• Sun exposure (solar urticaria)
• Heat (cholinergic urticaria), such as during a bath or when the body warms up
• Cold (cold-induced urticaria), from contact with cold air or water
For some people, the skin is highly sensitive to physical irritation, so pressure from socks, jeans, or waistbands can trigger hives.
Symptoms include intense itching and the appearance of red or white raised patches, usually ranging from the size of a grain of rice to a fingernail. Each patch usually disappears within 10–20 minutes or a few hours, but new patches may continue to appear, which is a hallmark of hives. Some cases resolve within a few days to a week, while others can persist for weeks, months, or even years. Cases that resolve quickly are called acute, while those lasting over a month are termed chronic hives. Conventional treatment involves identifying and avoiding allergens. In chronic cases, addressing factors like abnormal stomach acid or intestinal health may also help prevent symptoms.
In Traditional Korean Medicine (TKM), hives are thought to be linked to digestive imbalances, excessive heat in the stomach from dietary factors, or emotional disturbances affecting the liver. Chronic cases may involve "blood stasis," a unique TKM concept of stagnant blood circulation. TKM treatment emphasizes addressing the root cause of hives, focusing on holistic improvement of the patient’s particular constitution rather than just relieving symptoms temporarily.
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Treatment Case 1: 32-year-old female
The patient was a 32-year-old female, she worked as an architect in a busy firm. She complained of recurrent hives appearing on arms, legs, and abdomen with significant itching, particularly after consuming seafood, spicy foods, and dairy. Hives tend to flare up in the evenings and worsen with stress. Even when not consuming those foods, she noted that she had occasional bloating, acid reflux, and mild constipation. Recently, her firm was bidding on a major federal government contract, and her irregular work and eating schedule, as well as the work stress, aggravated her symptoms. This led her to seek help.
According to her symptoms, the practitioner diagnosed her as having accumulation of heat in the stomach and spleen with damp-heat and qi stagnation. The hives appear to be aggravated by dietary factors, such as foods that induce internal heat or dampness (like seafood and spicy foods), and are also triggered by stress. According to TKM, the spleen and stomach are responsible for digestion and can become imbalanced from dietary habits and emotions, leading to damp-heat, which manifests as hives. Additionally, the liver qi may be stagnated due to her work-related stress, exacerbating the condition.
The practitioner prescribed her herbal formulas to treat skin itching and hives by expelling wind, clearing heat, and nourishing the blood. Other herbs were also included in this formula such as Huang Lian (Coptis) and Fu Ling (Poria) to help reduce the inflammation from her stomach and intestines, as well as support the function of her digestive system and remove excess fluid circulation. Dietary recommendations were also given. To strengthen spleen function, the patient was told to have lightly cooked meals, such as congee with ingredients like sweet potato, ginger, leafy greens, mung beans, and Chinese yam.
After 1 month of treatment, the patient reported that her hives looked less inflamed in character, and that her digestion was a lot better. The same treatment was continued for another month. The patient noted that while she still had the occasional flareup, they were much more manageable and did not cause her excessive mental distress. Her digestion was again improved, and she had much less bloating and stomach pain as well.
Acne is mainly a condition involving papules or pustules on the faces of adolescent males and females, caused by the inflammation of hair follicles. The primary causes include the stimulation of sebaceous (oil) glands by male hormones, along with factors such as constipation, various life stresses, and the presence of bacteria like Propionibacterium acnes, which is naturally found in hair follicles. Sweat, impaired skin cell shedding, and blockages or narrowing of pore openings also play a complex role. Additionally, genetic predisposition, a diet rich in sugars and fats, use of cosmetics, menstrual cycles, and lowered physical condition contribute to acne development.
Treatment involves minimizing these factors as much as possible, paying special attention to facial cleansing, and avoiding makeup. In Western medicine, common treatments include low-dose, long-term antibiotic use, short-term isotretinoin therapy, and oral vitamin B2, as well as the use of topical creams with antibiotics to remove physical blockages. Long-term antibiotic use is generally effective and beneficial, but it also requires consideration of potential side effects.
In Traditional Korean Medicine (TKM), acne vulgaris is primarily seen as a reflection of internal imbalances that manifest on the skin. TKM identifies several underlying patterns that contribute to acne, mainly involving heat, dampness, blood stasis, and disharmony between different organs. TKM also believes that emotional factors, such as stress or anger, can lead to stagnation in the circulation function of various bodily systems. In turn, this stagnation can induce heat and inflammation and cause an acne flareup as a result.
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Treatment Case 1: 27-year-old female
The patient is of average build and height, with fair skin and a slightly frail appearance. Since middle school, the patient has had frequent acne on the face, which worsens, especially during the summer, and often forms pustules. Since last summer, the condition has worsened, and the patient has developed photosensitivity. A butterfly-shaped erythema also appeared on the face, and later, contact dermatitis from wearing earrings became common. After healing, there was residual hyperpigmentation. The patient often experiences a sensation of heat and frequent dryness in the mouth. Treatment with herbal medicine to clear heat was initiated.
Two weeks after starting treatment, the sensation of heat on the face was reduced by half, and after one month, the formation of new pustules was significantly reduced. Three months into the treatment, new pustules were almost nonexistent, and if they appeared, only one or two formed and healed quickly within a few days. The same treatment was continued for about a year, and acne rarely appeared. When the patient's condition declined, one or two pustules would form, but they healed naturally within a few days.
Psoriasis initially presents with erythema accompanied by silvery-white scales on the scalp, knees, and elbows, and then the rash spreads to the rest of the body. Factors such as colds and the abrupt discontinuation of steroid creams can trigger the disease. There are types of psoriasis that involve widespread pustules (generalized pustular psoriasis) and psoriatic arthritis, which is associated with joint pain, joint deformities, and other joint symptoms.
Psoriasis is considered a difficult-to-treat condition in Western medicine, and managing the symptoms remains challenging. Traditionally, psoriasis has been treated with steroids, topical treatments like Tar Anthralin, ultraviolet B (UVB) therapy, PUVA therapy (oral and topical), oral retinoids, oral methotrexate (MTX), and sometimes gold preparations for psoriatic arthritis. However, these treatments have not been entirely effective. The introduction of the immunosuppressant cyclosporine (CYS), commonly used in organ transplantation, has revolutionized psoriasis treatment. With a dosage of 3-5 mg/kg/day, psoriasis can be controlled relatively easily. However, some cases do not respond. While this drug shows dramatic clinical effects, it is not a fundamental cure, and symptoms often relapse soon after discontinuation. Furthermore, side effects such as kidney dysfunction, liver dysfunction, hypertension, gingival hypertrophy, hirsutism, tremors, sensory hypersensitivity, and diarrhea are concerns.
In Traditional Korean Medicine (TKM), the pathology of psoriasis is understood as blood heat, blood stasis with heat, or deficiency of yin leading to blood heat. Blood heat refers to a condition where inflammation in the circulatory system leads to abnormalities, and symptoms such as hematemesis, nosebleeds, hematuria, subcutaneous hemorrhages, and excessive menstruation are included. Psoriasis is similar to this in that the normal flow of blood is obstructed in the dermal and intradermal level. Blood stasis with heat refers to trapped heat within the body, which causes itching and pain. Yin deficiency with blood heat refers to a state where improper treatment of blood stasis with heat leads to pathological changes in the body's lymph, saliva, and other bodily fluids, leading to symptoms like weight loss, mild fever, redness near the cheekbones, dry stools, and others.
In TKM, even for patients suffering the same condition which may be called “psoriasis”, different signs and individual characteristics of the patient are considered when understanding the disease and formulating a treatment plan.
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Treatment Case: 58-year-old woman
This patient presented with the following symptoms:
• Psoriatic plaques are visible on the scalp, elbows, knees, and lower back.
• Red, inflamed lesions with silvery-white scales.
• Occasional itching, particularly at night.
• Mild burning sensation in the affected areas.
• Low energy, fatigue.
• Mild headaches in the evenings, particularly after stressful events.
• Dry mouth and throat with a slight, persistent low-grade fever.
The patient has no significant comorbidities, but she has a history of seasonal allergies and has been experiencing chronic stress over the last few years. She reports a history of mild eczema as a child, with occasional flare-ups of psoriasis in recent years, particularly on her elbows, knees, and scalp.
She was previously given UVB therapy and other herbal medicine to clear heat, but it was not effective. Her tongue was reddened and her pulse was weak with no strength. The patient was diagnosed as having blood stasis with heat and Yin deficiency. A special herbal formula was selected with herbs that help in plaque formation, this was in consideration of her long history of psoriasis and the supposition that dryness of the dermal and intradermal region was a great contributor to her subjective discomfort. After two weeks of treatment, the clinical presentation was only somewhat improved but the itching and discomfort was diminished greatly. After another two weeks, the psoriasis appeared to be almost gone. After another two months of treatment, it was resolved and the treatment was discontinued.
Eczema is a term for a group of skin conditions that are characterized clinically by itching, redness, scaling, clustered papules, and vesicles. Histologically, it is a superficial dermatitis, showing spongiosis in the epidermis and inflammatory cell infiltration around the blood vessels in the dermis.
Eczema is commonly used synonymously with dermatitis. However, dermatitis is a broader term referring to any inflammatory skin lesion, while eczema is one type of dermatitis. Eczema can occur on any part of the body. Well-known types include hand eczema, eyelid eczema, external auditory canal eczema, and nipple eczema.
Hand eczema accounts for over 80% of occupational dermatitis cases. Occupations exposed to moist environments, such as hairdressers, food service workers, and healthcare professionals, have a higher incidence of hand eczema. Frequent exposure to water during household chores can lead to skin contact with water or detergents, damaging the stratum corneum and compromising the skin’s protective barrier, making eczema more likely. Low humidity is also a risk factor for hand eczema, as it increases the penetration of allergens or irritants, damaging the skin barrier and potentially leading to eczema.
In the early stages of eczema, itching is accompanied by blisters and papules, which become red and swollen. Over time, swelling and blistering decrease, but skin folds increase, and the skin thickens. Pigmentation changes and cracking may develop, and severe cases may lead to bleeding. Rarely, scarring can occur.
Eczema is generally identified through a visual examination. Diagnosis considers the appearance and distribution of skin lesions, medical history, and environmental factors.
To treat eczema effectively, it is essential to avoid environmental triggers. Conventional medical treatment restores the skin to its original state rather than making it more resistant to water or detergents. Therefore, treatment cannot succeed if exposure to water or irritants continues after therapy. Wearing vinyl gloves when handling water can help, but sweat may accumulate under the gloves and irritate the skin. Wearing cotton gloves inside vinyl gloves is beneficial. Moisturizing is crucial in managing dermatitis, so it is recommended to frequently apply creams or ointments to maintain skin hydration.
In Traditional Korean Medicine (TKM), eczema is largely considered a major dysfunction of the water metabolism and circulation functions of the body. Because of certain environmental triggers as well as innate constitutional factors, inflammation is believed to paradoxically be accompanied by excessive bodily fluid retention as well as dryness and itching in the affected areas. Treatment aims at restoring the function of the “Triple Burner” organ system, which is believed to be responsible for the normal movement of bodily fluids throughout the body.
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Treatment Case 1: 10-year-old female child
This patient had a history of asthma and allergic rhinitis since age 1, and suffered from occasional hand and foot eczema. She had a relatively weaker constitution, with a pale tongue, weak pulse, and voice that was difficult to hear. Since about a week ago, she has been suffering from a particularly bad spell of eczema, accompanied by redness, flaking, and severe itching. She was prescribed the ointment Celtect 40mg for 7 days from the family doctor. This helped with the redness and reduced inflammation, but it wasn’t greatly effective at resolving the itching and discomfort.
First herbal medicine and acupuncture aimed at reducing the inflamed state of the affected areas was prescribed for a month. This helped reduce the itching feeling, but the patient still complained of flaking and some remaining itching. The treatment plan was changed at this point to nourish the bodily fluids and after another month the patient reported a great reduction in her symptoms.
• Urticaria
• Hand Eczema (Housewife's Eczema)
• Atopic Dermatitis
• Contact Dermatitis
• Rosacea
• Pruritus (Itchy Skin)
• Warts
• Alopecia Areata
• Herpes Zoster (Shingles)
• Hyperhidrosis
• Tinea Versicolor
• Palmoplantar Pustulosis
• Chilblains
• Burns
Treatable conditions with Acupuncture
Cerebral hemorrhage and cerebral infarction are both types of strokes, and prompt diagnosis and treatment are crucial. Early detection and appropriate treatment of both conditions are vital for patient recovery, minimizing sequelae, and can play a significant role in saving lives. Prevention involves managing risk factors such as hypertension, diabetes, and hyperlipidemia and maintaining a healthy lifestyle.
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Cerebral Hemorrhage Definition:
Cerebral hemorrhage occurs when a blood vessel in the brain ruptures, causing blood to leak into the surrounding brain tissue. This condition is often caused by factors such as high blood pressure, ruptured cerebral aneurysms, trauma, or vascular malformations. Cerebral hemorrhage can be classified based on its location, such as intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) and subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH).
Symptoms:
The symptoms of cerebral hemorrhage vary depending on the size and location of the bleeding and may include:
• Sudden severe headache: Described as a "thunderclap" headache, it may involve an intense pain not experienced before.
• Nausea and vomiting: Sudden onset of nausea and vomiting can occur.
• Altered consciousness: Confusion, drowsiness, decreased alertness, or even coma can develop.
• Neurological symptoms: Weakness or numbness on one side of the body, speech difficulties, visual disturbances, and more.
• Seizures: Seizures may occur due to the bleeding in the brain.
Sequelae:
The aftereffects of a cerebral hemorrhage can vary based on the location and severity of the brain damage. Common sequelae include:
• Persistent neurological deficits: Paralysis, sensory disturbances, speech impairment, vision problems, etc.
• Cognitive decline: Memory loss, decreased concentration, impaired judgment, etc.
• Emotional changes: Depression, anxiety, emotional dysregulation, etc.
• Seizure disorders: Continued seizures may occur depending on the damaged brain region.
• Death: In severe cases, it can be life-threatening.
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Cerebral Infarction Definition:
Cerebral infarction occurs when a blood vessel in the brain is blocked, leading to a loss of blood flow and subsequent brain tissue damage. It is primarily caused by a thrombus (blood clot) or embolus (traveling clot) blocking a blood vessel supplying the brain, leading to oxygen and nutrient deprivation and cell death. Cerebral infarction is a major type of ischemic stroke, accounting for over 80% of all stroke cases.
Symptoms:
Symptoms of cerebral infarction typically appear suddenly and vary based on the location of the blocked blood vessel. Common symptoms include:
• Sudden unilateral paralysis: Rapid weakness or paralysis of the face, arm, or leg on one side of the body.
• Speech difficulties: Slurred speech or inability to understand speech.
• Visual disturbances: Blurred vision in one or both eyes, or loss of vision.
• Dizziness and balance problems: Difficulty walking, vertigo, and balance issues.
• Confusion and cognitive decline: Disorientation or confusion may occur.
Sequelae:
Various sequelae may persist after cerebral infarction, with severity depending on the location and extent of brain damage. Common sequelae include:
• Motor and sensory impairments: Paralysis, muscle weakness, and sensory disturbances on one side of the body.
• Speech and cognitive deficits: Aphasia (inability to speak), memory loss, and cognitive decline.
• Dysphagia: Difficulty swallowing food.
• Emotional and behavioral changes: Depression, anxiety, aggressive behavior, personality changes.
• Difficulties in daily living: Challenges in independent living and performing daily activities.
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Traditional Korean Medicine (TKM) Treatments and Expected Effects
In Traditional Korean Medicine (TKM), sequelae from cerebral hemorrhage and cerebral infarction are managed through acupuncture and herbal medicine, aiming to achieve the following therapeutic effects:
• Lowering blood pressure: To control hypertension and prevent stroke recurrence.
• Diuretic action: To balance body fluids, reduce brain pressure, and alleviate edema.
• Sedation and vasodilation: To improve blood circulation and increase cerebral blood flow.
• Anti-hyperlipidemic and anticoagulant effects: To reduce blood cholesterol levels and prevent blood clotting, thereby maintaining vascular health.
Expected Benefits:
• Improvement in motor disabilities: Aims to restore function in paralyzed muscles.
• Improvement in sensory disabilities: Helps alleviate sensory disturbances and restores balance.
• Improvement in autonomic nervous symptoms: Improves symptoms related to autonomic nervous system dysregulation, such as temperature control and sweating.
• Improvement in neuropsychiatric symptoms: Promotes emotional stability and cognitive function enhancement, thereby improving the quality of life.
Early diagnosis and prompt treatment are crucial for survival and functional recovery in stroke patients. Prevention includes strict management of risk factors like hypertension, diabetes, and hyperlipidemia and maintaining a healthy lifestyle.
Subarachnoid hemorrhage refers to a condition where bleeding occurs in the subarachnoid space due to various causes, with the main causes being the rupture of a cerebral aneurysm and bleeding from an arteriovenous malformation in the brain. The aftereffects of subarachnoid hemorrhage include ischemic changes caused by vasospasm, leading to neurological symptoms such as hemiplegia and aphasia in the middle cerebral artery territory, and mental symptoms like cognitive and intellectual impairments in the anterior cerebral artery territory. The primary mental symptom is a decrease in spontaneity, and other symptoms may include memory impairment, varying degrees of dementia, and personality disorders. Traditional Korean medicine mainly focuses on treating sequelae of stroke, such as chronic cerebral infarction, and shows relatively good treatment outcomes.
Cerebral arteriosclerosis refers to the condition where cholesterol or fat accumulates on the walls of the cerebral blood vessels, forming atherosclerotic plaques. This results in the narrowing or hardening of the blood vessels leading to the brain. It is one of the key causes of serious brain conditions such as stroke, cerebral infarction, or cerebral hemorrhage.
Causes:
The primary causes are chronic conditions such as hypertension, diabetes, and hyperlipidemia, along with lifestyle factors like smoking, alcohol consumption, lack of exercise, and obesity. As people age, arterial walls tend to thicken or harden, a natural aging process that can also contribute to this condition.
Symptoms:
Cerebral arteriosclerosis may not present any noticeable symptoms in the early stages. However, as blood flow to the brain becomes increasingly restricted, various symptoms can develop, including:
• Headaches: Occurs when the narrowed blood vessels are unable to supply sufficient blood to the brain.
• Dizziness and balance issues: A lack of blood flow to the brain can result in dizziness or loss of balance.
• Memory loss and cognitive decline: When blood flow is blocked in certain areas of the brain, memory and cognitive functions can be affected.
• Motor and sensory impairments: Numbness or weakness in the arms or legs may develop.
In traditional Korean medicine, treatments aimed at addressing these symptoms often yield favorable outcomes.
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Treatment Case 1
A 76-year-old Korean woman with a history of hypertension (166/100 mmHg) had been taking medication for her condition. For the past two years, she would wake up with headaches in the morning, which subsided after rising, but a heavy feeling in her head persisted throughout the day. Discomfort with acupuncture led her to begin herbal medicine treatment. After one month, her morning headaches had disappeared, and after three months, her blood pressure dropped to 140/84 mmHg. Additionally, symptoms of a heavy head, stiff shoulders, and insomnia had significantly improved.
Anorexia Nervosa is treated through a psychosomatic approach, aiming to restore balance and maintain homeostasis in response to weight loss, reduced heart rate, weakened immune function, and imbalances in the endocrine and autonomic nervous systems. The primary treatment for this condition is psychotherapy, while traditional Korean medicine can serve as a complementary therapy
"In neurological diagnostics, language disorders are generally divided into dysarthria and aphasia. Dysarthria refers to a speech disorder caused by impairments in the muscles involved in articulation, such as the tongue, palate, lips, and larynx, as well as the nervous system that controls these muscles. Aphasia, on the other hand, is a condition where a person has difficulty with language expression and comprehension despite normal peripheral speech organs, as well as an absence of consciousness and hearing impairments.
In traditional Korean medicine, speech is associated with the heart. Excessive talkativeness and agitation are often seen as signs of an 'excess' or 'heat' condition, while quietness and a lack of speech are considered 'deficiency' or 'cold' conditions. In either case, accurately diagnosing the condition of the heart and providing precise treatment is essential."
"Epilepsy is a chronic brain disorder caused by various factors, characterized by recurrent seizures due to abnormal electrical rhythms in the brain. Epileptic seizures can present in multiple forms, including motor seizures, sensory seizures, autonomic symptoms (involving internal organs), as well as consciousness disorders, hallucinations, and other psychiatric symptoms. The key characteristics of epilepsy include 1) sudden or episodic onset, 2) involuntary seizures, 3) abnormal brain rhythms, and 4) recurrence.
Epilepsy is a neurological disorder affecting approximately 0.4% of the population. About 80% of cases occur in individuals under 20, with a high incidence in children under 5. However, epilepsy is common enough that it also occurs frequently in adulthood and old age, with a slightly higher incidence in adult males. Regarding genetic factors, about 3% of relatives of epilepsy patients also have epilepsy, though the degree and nature of genetic involvement are still not fully understood. Causes of epilepsy include genetic factors, perinatal complications, inflammation, tumors, and trauma, which may individually or collectively cause neurophysiological, biochemical, or pathological changes in the brain’s gray matter.
Traditional Korean medicine aims to normalize body metabolism to help alleviate these symptoms."
In traditional Eastern medicine, schizophrenia is categorized as either "Jeon (癲)" or "Gwang (狂)." According to classical texts, "Jeon" develops gradually, characterized by dementia-like symptoms, a lack of speech, and disorganized thoughts. Patients with "Jeon" tend to speak to themselves, cry or laugh without clear reason, prefer isolation, and often display feelings of fear. In contrast, "Gwang" has a rapid onset, with patients exhibiting aggressive behaviors, such as shouting profanities, acting violently towards others, climbing to high places to sing, or undressing and running around.
Thus, schizophrenia can be divided into two types: "Jeon" and "Gwang." In "Jeon," patients are usually quiet, exhibit limited speech, and easily fall into emotional disturbances and dementia-like states with a chronic course. In "Gwang," however, patients display acute and excitable behavior, sometimes damaging property or harming others. "Gwang" can respond well to treatment in a shorter period, but emotional disturbances and dementia-like symptoms may be more prominent than in "Jeon." Additionally, these two types may occasionally transition into one another.
Traditional Korean medicine treats schizophrenia by distinguishing between "Jeon" and "Gwang" and considers each patient's primary symptoms and constitution, aiming to facilitate overall metabolic balance in the body for effective treatment.
Mania is a mental state characterized by an elevated mood, excessive motivation, and accelerated thought processes. From a treatment perspective, acute psychosis can be seen as an intensified form of mania, where symptoms of excitement and confusion become more severe. In such cases, the standard approach is to use antipsychotic medications with strong sedative effects, and hospitalization is often necessary.
In traditional Korean medicine, mania is regarded as a "Gwang (狂)" condition and is diagnosed as an excess yang syndrome. Treatment is tailored to the patient’s primary symptoms and constitution, using herbal medicine accordingly.
Depression is a condition characterized by a general decline in physical and mental function without any organic cause, leading to a persistent depressive state. The symptoms of depression are broadly divided into psychological and physical symptoms.
Psychological Symptoms
• Depressed Mood: Feelings expressed as "I feel down," "I have no interest," "I feel heavy-hearted," or "I lack enthusiasm." In some cases, patients may simply complain of a sense of inhibition, saying, "I feel lethargic," "I lack persistence," or "My memory has worsened."
• Agitation: Often described as "I feel restless," and in severe cases, patients may pace around the room, unable to sit still. This agitation can lessen somewhat in the presence of a close companion, but it tends to worsen when the person is alone.
• Loss of Confidence: Patients may say things like, "I feel like I've become an idiot," or "I can’t understand what I read anymore," expressing a loss of self-esteem and confidence.
Physical Symptoms:
Physical symptoms are more common in unipolar depression than in the depressive phases of bipolar disorder. In the early stages, patients may experience vague physical discomfort or a sense of fatigue, with few clear physical symptoms. During the extreme depressive phase (depressive stupor), physical symptoms are rarely present. However, if depression becomes chronic or persistent, psychological symptoms tend to decrease while physical symptoms become more prominent.
Physical symptoms can be broadly divided into digestive symptoms, circulatory symptoms, and neurological symptoms. Digestive symptoms are more common in the early stages of depression, while circulatory and neurological symptoms become more prominent as the condition becomes chronic.
In traditional Korean medicine, depression is often seen as an "excess yang syndrome," and treatment is administered with herbal medicine and acupuncture, tailored to the patient's symptoms and constitution.
Autonomic imbalance refers to a dysfunction in the autonomic nervous system, resulting in an imbalance between the sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous systems. This can lead to various physical symptoms, such as general fatigue, dizziness, headaches, and a feeling of heaviness in the head.
There are two primary factors that can lead to autonomic imbalance. The first is the individual’s inherent predisposition to autonomic instability due to their physical constitution. This refers to cases where the autonomic nervous system is naturally more sensitive or unstable. The second factor involves external influences, with relatively minor involvement from internal factors. Environmental factors such as climate, geography, and living conditions can contribute, with psychological and social stress being particularly significant. These external factors can disrupt the balance of the autonomic nervous system.
In traditional Korean medicine, the term "autonomic imbalance" does not exist as a formal diagnosis. However, practitioners assess the patient’s symptoms to understand the underlying imbalances and approach treatment holistically, integrating body and mind. Additionally, modern scientific research has shown that certain acupuncture points can help regulate autonomic function, allowing for effective treatment through acupuncture and herbal medicine.
Erectile dysfunction, also known as impotence, refers to the inability to achieve or maintain an erection sufficient for sexual intercourse. It can be categorized into two main types. First, primary erectile dysfunction refers to cases where an individual has never been able to engage in sexual intercourse since birth. Second, secondary erectile dysfunction describes situations where a person who was previously able to engage in sexual intercourse becomes unable to do so due to specific circumstances.
Additionally, erectile capacity may be normal, but psychological factors may prevent adequate erection, which is termed functional erectile dysfunction. Conversely, organic erectile dysfunction occurs when sexual intercourse is not possible due to abnormalities in the nerves, blood vessels, hormones, or physical deformities of the penis (e.g., penile amputation). There is also mixed erectile dysfunction, which involves a combination of functional and organic factors, as well as transient erectile dysfunction caused by certain medications (e.g., antipsychotics, anxiolytics). Generally, secondary erectile dysfunction and functional erectile dysfunction are the most common.
In cases of severe penile injury or significant spinal cord damage affecting the erectile center, recovery may not be expected solely through medication. When the cause of sexual dysfunction involves issues on the female side, it is conventionally referred to simply as "impotence," rather than erectile dysfunction. Causes on the female side may include vaginal agenesis, hymenal hypertrophy, vaginismus, and sexual aversion disorder. The sexual dysfunctions seen most frequently—secondary and functional erectile dysfunction in men, and vaginismus and sexual aversion disorder in women—are often well-suited for treatment in traditional Korean medicine (Han medicine).
In traditional Korean medicine, the kidney (신, "shin") is considered the foundation for sexual and reproductive functions, thought to be deeply related to them. Thus, when kidney function weakens, impotence may occur. In Chinese medicine, erectile dysfunction is often viewed as arising from a deficiency in kidney yang (신양, "shinyang"), reinforcing the close relationship between sexual function and kidney health.
Emotional factors are also significant contributors to erectile dysfunction. Feelings of frustration, worry, excessive thinking, and anger can damage the liver, leading to dysfunction in the central and autonomic nervous systems and ultimately resulting in erectile dysfunction. Moreover, prolonged stress can lead to overexertion of the nerves, damaging the heart and spleen, which reduces the generation of vital energy (기혈) and can further contribute to sexual impotence. Chronic debilitating diseases that deplete vital energy also make it understandable that one may develop erectile dysfunction.
Dietary habits play an important role as well; excessive consumption of strong alcohol and rich foods over long periods can impair the spleen, leading to the accumulation of dampness and heat in the body. This condition can hinder the circulation of vital energy in the lower abdomen, making it difficult for the penis to achieve an erection.
Guillain-Barré syndrome (GBS) is a rare autoimmune disorder that affects the nervous system, wherein the immune system attacks the nerves, leading to muscle weakness and paralysis. This syndrome primarily affects the peripheral nervous system (nerves outside the brain and spinal cord), causing issues with sensory and motor functions. It is characterized by progressive paralysis that typically starts in the legs and spreads to the arms and upper body; in severe cases, it can lead to respiratory muscle paralysis, which can be life-threatening.
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Main Symptoms:
• Muscle Weakness: Symmetrical muscle weakness typically begins in the legs and gradually ascends to the upper body.
• Sensory Disturbances: Patients may experience tingling, numbness, or a pins-and-needles sensation in the hands and feet.
• Decreased Reflexes: Muscle reflexes may diminish or disappear.
• Pain: Some patients may report pain.
• Respiratory Problems: As symptoms worsen, respiratory muscle paralysis can lead to breathing difficulties.
• Autonomic Nervous System Dysfunction: Symptoms may include changes in heart rate, blood pressure instability, and abnormal sweating.
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Causes:
The exact cause of GBS is not well understood, but it is generally believed to occur after an infection (especially viral or bacterial infections), where the immune system overreacts and attacks the nerves. It can commonly develop following illnesses such as colds, flu, gastroenteritis, or vaccination.
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Treatment:
1. Intravenous Immunoglobulin (IVIG) Therapy: This antibody treatment helps stabilize the immune system.
2. Plasmapheresis: This method involves removing antibodies from the blood.
3. Supportive Care: Patients may require supportive treatments such as ventilators in intensive care to maintain respiratory function.
Prognosis:
Most patients experience recovery over a period of months to years with appropriate treatment, though some may suffer from permanent muscle weakness or nerve damage. In traditional Korean medicine, treatment involves using herbal remedies and acupuncture tailored to the patient's condition, and the prognosis for recovery is generally favorable.
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Korean Acupuncture & Wellness Clinic
한국한의원
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