Question 1

What exactly is sacroiliac joint pain? Is it different from a herniated disc?

Accepted Answer

It is pain that occurs in the sacroiliac joint, where the sacrum and ilium meet at the back of the pelvis. If this joint, which moves only slightly, becomes unstable or the surrounding ligaments weaken, one side of the buttocks feels stiff and aching. Unlike a herniated disc, which can cause numbness extending down the leg, the pain usually stays in the buttocks and upper thigh.

Question 2

When I get injections in my hip at an orthopedic clinic, the relief is only temporary, and the pain returns. Can Korean traditional medicine address this differently?

Accepted Answer

While injections quickly reduce inflammation, the weakened ligaments that caused joint instability remain, making recurrence likely. By strengthening the weakened ligaments themselves, we can aim for a state where the pain does not return.

Question 3

The MRI says my discs are fine, but my buttocks continue to hurt. Can pain that doesn't show up on tests also improve?

Accepted Answer

Sacroiliac joint pain is often not clearly visible on imaging, so it is easy to hear that there is "no abnormality." However, significant improvement is possible if pain is confirmed through physical examination by directly stimulating the joint and then treated.

Question 4

In which postures or movements does sacroiliac joint pain worsen?

Accepted Answer

It worsens when sitting down and standing up, turning over in bed, standing on one leg or sitting with legs crossed, and going up and down stairs. An unbalanced posture makes the joint more unstable.

Question 5

My buttocks on one side have been hurting continuously since childbirth. Could it be due to the sacroiliac joint?

Accepted Answer

During pregnancy and childbirth, pelvic ligaments loosen due to hormonal influences, causing instability in the sacroiliac joint and commonly resulting in pain. If pain on one side of the buttocks persists for a long time after delivery, sacroiliac joint pain should be suspected.

Question 6

Can I receive bee venom acupuncture and pharmacopuncture treatments while taking anti-inflammatory painkillers?

Accepted Answer

In most cases, they can be combined. However, if you have an allergy to bee venom (bee acupuncture) or are taking anticoagulants or anticoagulants, please inform us in advance so that we can safely adjust the dosage and procedures.

Question 7

I recently received a steroid injection in my buttocks. Is it okay to receive Oriental medicine treatment immediately afterward?

Accepted Answer

It is safe to allow a gap between treatments on the same area immediately after an injection. Treatment to strengthen the ligaments usually begins after about 1 to 2 weeks, once inflammation has subsided.

Question 8

How long does it take for sacroiliac joint pain to improve after treatment?

Accepted Answer

Acute cases improve within a few weeks, while chronic cases usually improve gradually over 4 to 8 weeks or more. Since ligament strengthening takes time, the joint is stabilized over multiple sessions rather than recovering all at once.

Question 9

It gets better, but then flares up again if I overexert myself. How can I reduce the risk of recurrence?

Accepted Answer

It is easy to recur if you overexert yourself before weakened ligaments are sufficiently strengthened. Recurrence is significantly reduced if you complete ligament strengthening treatment and combine it with hip and core muscle strengthening and posture management.

Question 10

What can I do to manage sacroiliac joint pain at home?

Accepted Answer

Avoid crossing your legs or standing with uneven weight distribution, and sit in a balanced posture. Strengthening your gluteal and core muscles, along with applying warm compresses, is helpful, and it is best to avoid sofas that are too soft.

Question 11

I'm curious about which exercises are good and which should be avoided for sacroiliac joint pain.

Accepted Answer

Exercises that stabilize the glutes and core are beneficial, while twisting movements to one side, deep squats, and strenuous lunges should be avoided during the acute phase. The principle is to gradually strengthen within a pain-free range.

Question 12

I live in Dong-gu, Incheon. How is the treatment for sacroiliac joint pain conducted on my first visit?

Accepted Answer

We confirm whether the sacroiliac joint is the cause through a physical examination, and after assessing the condition of ligaments and adhesions using ultrasound, we determine a treatment plan, such as pharmacopuncture or moxibustion. In many cases, the examination and the first procedure are performed together during the initial visit.

Question 13

How often should I receive treatment? What if I can't come often?

Accepted Answer

In the early stages, about twice a week is ideal, but if it is difficult to visit frequently, the interval between visits can be extended by adding continuous stimulation using thread lifting.

Question 14

Is it dangerous to insert needles or fine blades into the buttocks?

Accepted Answer

It is safe because the procedure is performed while confirming the location and depth using ultrasound. Around the sacroiliac joint, the needle targets ligaments and soft tissues, avoiding major nerves and blood vessels; mild bruising and stiffness after the procedure subside within a few days.

Question 15

Are there any warning signs that indicate I absolutely need a detailed examination for my sacral pain?

Accepted Answer

If morning stiffness lasts for more than an hour, does not improve with rest and worsens at night, causes pain in both buttocks alternately, or is accompanied by fever, weight loss, or leg numbness, other diseases such as ankylosing spondylitis or infection must be differentiated.

Question 16

In what order is treatment for sacroiliac joint pain carried out?

Accepted Answer

We treat the painful area by treating ① releasing adhesions (sole needles), ② strengthening weakened ligaments (pharmacopuncture, heated fire acupuncture, thread embedding), and ③ reducing inflammation (bee venom acupuncture, pharmacopuncture). If the condition does not heal well, we address the underlying causes of recurrence through stages of emptying (detoxification) and replenishing (constitutional adjustment).

Question 17

Does sacroiliac joint pain require surgery? Can it really be improved without surgery?

Accepted Answer

In most cases, sacroiliac joint pain is not a candidate for surgery, and in many instances, it improves sufficiently with non-surgical treatments that strengthen weakened ligaments. Joint fixation surgery is considered only for a limited number of cases that do not respond to conservative treatment.

Question 18

Can sacroiliac joint pain be accompanied by a herniated disc or sciatica?

Accepted Answer

Yes, since it often occurs alongside herniated discs, sciatica, and hip joint problems, the pain appears mixed. It is important to differentiate the source of the pain and treat them together.

Question 19

I am a woman in my 30s, and my fibromyalgia repeatedly improves only to suddenly worsen. Is this normal?

Accepted Answer

Yes, fibromyalgia typically follows a flare pattern where symptoms improve and then worsen. Sleep deprivation, excessive physical activity, weather changes, and stress are major triggers. During a flare, it is important to maintain a consistent pace without excessively increasing or decreasing activity levels.

Question 20

I am a housewife in my 40s with fibromyalgia. Should I exercise? What kind of exercise is good?

Accepted Answer

Aerobic exercise is one of the non-pharmacological treatments for fibromyalgia with the highest level of evidence. The key is to start with low-impact aerobic exercises, such as aquatic exercise (aqua aerobics), walking, and cycling, at a low intensity and gradually increase it. You need the flexibility to start with 5 to 10 minutes and reduce the amount if pain worsens.

Question 21

I am a woman in my 50s living in Dong-gu, Incheon. It is very difficult for me to sleep due to fibromyalgia. Are there any ways to improve my sleep?

Accepted Answer

Improving sleep hygiene is the key to managing fibromyalgia. The basic principles include going to bed and waking up at the same time every day, blocking electronic devices for one hour before bedtime, maintaining a cool bedroom temperature of 18–20 degrees, and prohibiting caffeine after 2 PM. Relaxation techniques (progressive muscle relaxation, abdominal breathing) also help with falling asleep.

Question 22

If I am a woman in my 40s starting Korean medicine treatment for fibromyalgia, how often should I visit?

Accepted Answer

During the initial intensive treatment period, visits 2 to 3 times a week are recommended. Once symptoms improve by more than 50%, the frequency is reduced to maintenance treatment once a week, and during the stabilization phase, it transitions to management treatment at intervals of 2 weeks to 1 month. The total treatment duration varies depending on the severity of symptoms and response, but is generally based on 3 to 6 months.

Question 23

Is it safe to receive acupuncture for fibromyalgia treatment while pregnant or planning to become pregnant?

Accepted Answer

Acupuncture treatment during pregnancy is generally considered safe, with the exception of certain contraindicated acupoints, and is utilized as a non-pharmacological option for managing fibromyalgia in pregnant women. Particular caution is required during the early stages of pregnancy (months 1–3), and you must inform your attending Korean medicine doctor of your pregnancy status. If you are planning to become pregnant, please inform them of this fact when starting treatment.

Question 24

I am a woman in my 40s who has just been diagnosed with fibromyalgia, and I would like to know the entire process of how treatment is conducted at the Korean medicine clinic.

Accepted Answer

During the first visit, a detailed medical history and body type analysis are used to identify the differential diagnosis (identifying which organ or meridian is affected), and a customized treatment plan is established based on this. Treatment proceeds in stages, following the sequence of meridian circulation using acupuncture and moxibustion → anti-inflammation using pharmacopuncture and bee venom therapy → internal reinforcement using herbal medicine. The plan is adjusted by checking for changes at each visit.

Question 25

I am a woman in my 50s who has been receiving treatment for fibromyalgia for 6 months. My symptoms have improved significantly, but how long should I continue treatment?

Accepted Answer

If symptoms improve by more than 70–80% and remain flare-free for 2–3 months, you can extend the treatment cycle or try discontinuing the herbal medicine. Rather than aiming for a complete end to treatment, receiving management treatment during vulnerable periods such as seasonal changes or stress is more effective in preventing recurrence. It is important to establish a gradual reduction plan with your attending Korean medicine doctor.

Question 26

I am a woman in my 60s who has suffered from fibromyalgia for over 10 years. Would Korean traditional medicine be helpful in such a long-standing case?

Accepted Answer

While the response to treatment may be slower the longer the chronic period, there are cases where patients experience pain reduction and improved quality of life even after more than 10 years. It is important to set realistic goals of pain control and functional recovery rather than a complete cure, and to approach treatment consistently. Starting treatment without giving up is the very beginning of change.

Question 27

I am an office worker in my 40s currently on leave due to fibromyalgia. Can I return to work with Korean traditional medicine treatment?

Accepted Answer

There are cases of successful return to work through integrated management that includes Korean traditional medicine treatment. If pain is reduced by more than 50% and sleep improves, an attempt to return to work is possible. A phased return, starting with part-time or remote work, is recommended. It is also important to prepare coping strategies for the workplace environment (posture and stress).

Question 28

I am a woman in my 30s with fibromyalgia, depression, and irritable bowel syndrome. Can all of these be treated at once?

Accepted Answer

Fibromyalgia, depression, and irritable bowel syndrome often share common mechanisms involving central sensitization and autonomic nervous system imbalance. Korean traditional medicine offers the advantage of simultaneously addressing the imbalance of the neuro-immune-gut axis, which is the common root of these three diseases. These conditions are managed together in stages by prioritizing symptoms.

Question 29

I am a 28-year-old fitness trainer. I had an X-ray taken at the hospital, and they told me I have an extra rib called a cervical rib. Did this cause my thoracic outlet syndrome?

Accepted Answer

Cervical ribs (neck ribs) are a congenital mutation found in less than 1% of the population that can structurally narrow the thoracic outlet and cause syndrome. However, most people with cervical ribs are asymptomatic, and symptoms often manifest when muscle tension or postural issues are combined. Managing the surrounding soft tissues is the priority over the structure itself.

Question 30

I am a 42-year-old hairdresser. I work with my arms raised all day, so I suffer from severe numbness in my arms. Honestly, I doubt whether acupuncture can relieve the pressure on my nerves. Is acupuncture really effective for thoracic outlet syndrome?

Accepted Answer

Most cases of thoracic outlet syndrome involve excessive tension in muscles, such as the scalene muscles and pectoralis minor, compressing the nerves. Therefore, directly releasing the tension in these muscles with acupuncture reduces the pressure and alleviates the numbness. Unless there is a structural cause involving bone compression, conservative treatment is the primary choice, and acupuncture is one of the key tools for this.

Question 31

I am a 38-year-old logistics center manager. I received manual therapy for three months, but the relief was only temporary, and the numbness has returned. How is the needle acupuncture treatment at a Korean medicine clinic different from manual therapy?

Accepted Answer

Manual therapy is a method of loosening muscles and joints from the outside, whereas Dochim is a treatment that directly separates hardened fascia and adhered tissues using special needles with blade-like tips. If deep adhesions that cannot be reached by hand remain, the effects of manual therapy may be temporary; in such cases, Dochim can serve as a supplementary solution.

Question 32

I am a 25-year-old graduate student. I carry a heavy backpack filled with my laptop and books every day, and my arms feel particularly numb on days I wear it. Can a backpack worsen thoracic outlet syndrome?

Accepted Answer

Yes, heavy backpacks are a major aggravating factor. This is because the shoulder straps press directly against the clavicle area and pull the shoulders down, narrowing the thoracic outlet space. Reducing the weight of the bag, using both straps, and distributing the load with a chest strap can be helpful.

Question 33

I am a 47-year-old housewife. I’ve heard that the numbness and coldness in my hands are due to thoracic outlet syndrome. Does food have an impact? I feel like it gets worse when I eat cold food.

Accepted Answer

While food is not the direct cause, for individuals with vascular compression or weak circulation, cold foods, excessive caffeine, and smoking can constrict peripheral blood vessels, exacerbating hand coldness and numbness. Eating warm foods, staying hydrated, and quitting smoking can help manage symptoms.

Question 34

I am a 52-year-old taxi driver. I am currently taking anti-inflammatory painkillers and nerve pain medication prescribed by an orthopedic doctor. Is it okay to take herbal medicine at the same time? I am worried that the medications might interact.

Accepted Answer

In most cases, co-administration is possible if you space the dosage times by about two hours. However, you must accurately inform your doctor of the list of medications you are currently taking during your consultation. If you are also taking anticoagulants, adjustments may be necessary for herbs with blood-activating effects. Do not stop Western medicine on your own judgment; please make a decision after consulting with a doctor.

Question 35

I am a 31-year-old nurse. I was diagnosed with thoracic outlet syndrome due to the heavy workload of transporting patients. How long does it usually take to get better once treatment begins? Do I need to take time off work?

Accepted Answer

The nerve compression type often improves within 4 to 12 weeks with conservative treatment. Recovery is faster if the duration of the condition is short and postural factors are significant; however, if left untreated for several years, it may take 3 to 6 months or more. While most cases can be treated without taking time off work, it is advisable to reduce movements such as transporting heavy patients during the early stages of treatment.

Question 36

I am a 44-year-old piano instructor. I suffered from thoracic outlet syndrome last year and improved, but recently the tingling sensation has started again. Is it common for this condition to recur? What should I do to prevent a recurrence?

Accepted Answer

Thoracic outlet syndrome frequently recurs if the underlying posture and movements remain unchanged. This is because if you only alleviate the symptoms without correcting the shortening of the scalene and pectoralis minor muscles and postural habits, the same compression will repeat. To prevent recurrence, consistent maintenance of pectoral muscle stretching, scapular stabilization exercises, and corrected work posture is essential.

Question 37

I am a 29-year-old marketer. Are there any stretches for thoracic outlet syndrome that I can do in my spare time at work? I am currently receiving treatment, but I would also like to manage it myself.

Accepted Answer

The key exercises are three things: quadratus muscle stretching, pectoralis minor (door frame) stretching, and scapular retraction. Perform each movement for 20 to 30 seconds, 3 to 4 times a day, within a pain-free range. Stop if any movement causes severe numbness, and avoid stretches that involve excessively bending the neck.

Question 38

I am a 55-year-old restaurant owner in Dongincheon. I keep waking up at night because my arm feels numb. I’ve heard it is due to thoracic outlet syndrome; what position should I sleep in to reduce the numbness?

Accepted Answer

The key is to avoid sleeping with your arms raised above your head and lying on your side with the pain. Lie on your back with your arms beside your torso and use a low pillow to maintain neck alignment. When sleeping on your side, lie on the side that doesn't hurt and support your arm by hugging a pillow in front of your chest; this helps.

Question 39

I am a 36-year-old working mom living in Dong-gu, Incheon. I have very little time because I am raising two children while working. How often do I need to come for thoracic outlet syndrome treatment?

Accepted Answer

It is generally recommended to visit 2 to 3 times a week during the acute phase, and reduce the frequency to 1 to 2 times a week once symptoms stabilize. For those with tight schedules, a plan combining intensive treatment once a week with self-exercise can also be designed. After evaluating your condition during the initial consultation, we will determine a realistic treatment plan tailored to your daily schedule.

Question 40

I am a 49-year-old bus driver. I am scared to have acupuncture needles inserted into the side of my neck. I heard that major blood vessels and nerves pass through that area; is moxibustion treatment safe?

Accepted Answer

The thoracic outlet area next to the neck is a region where nerves and blood vessels are densely concentrated, making precise anatomical knowledge and depth control essential. Utilizing an ultrasound guide significantly enhances safety, as the location of nerves and blood vessels can be verified in real-time during the procedure. We conduct thorough explanations and evaluations before the procedure, and serious side effects are rare, aside from temporary bruising or stiffness.

Question 41

I am a 40-year-old hair salon owner. In what order is the Korean medicine treatment for thoracic outlet syndrome performed? I would like to know in advance what steps are followed from start to finish.

Accepted Answer

First, after confirming the compression site and degree of adhesion through examination and ultrasound evaluation, we begin with Stage 1, which involves releasing muscle tension using acupuncture. If adhesions are deep, we proceed with dissection using a needle; if tissue regeneration is required, we use fire acupuncture or thread embedding; and if inflammation is present, we advance to bee venom acupuncture or pharmacopuncture. Throughout the entire process, herbal medicine tailored to the patient's constitution, along with posture and exercise correction, are administered concurrently.

Question 42

I am a 33-year-old physical therapist. Professionally, I understand the mechanisms of acupuncture and moxibustion, but why is herbal medicine used for thoracic outlet syndrome? I am curious about the role herbal medicine plays in treatment.

Accepted Answer

Herbal medicine is responsible for areas that local procedures cannot reach, namely tissue recovery and systemic circulation. It improves the inflammatory environment of nerves and fascia, aids blood flow to maintain the effects of procedures, and corrects chronic fatigue and poor circulation that serve as breeding grounds for recurrence. If procedures are treatments that relieve pressure, herbal medicine is a treatment that maintains that relaxed state.

Question 43

I am a 46-year-old welder. I was told at the hospital that if my symptoms persist, surgery should be considered. Is there really a possibility of improvement without surgery through Korean traditional medicine treatment?

Accepted Answer

More than 90% of cases of nerve compression type thoracic outlet syndrome improve with conservative treatment, and surgery is limited to cases where there is insufficient response to conservative treatment or when there is vascular occlusion or muscle atrophy. Therefore, in most cases, it is highly likely that the condition will be managed without surgery through conservative Korean traditional medicine treatments such as acupuncture and moxibustion. However, if hand muscles atrophy or vascular symptoms are pronounced, a surgical evaluation should not be delayed.

Question 44

I am a 58-year-old seamstress. I have suffered from arm numbness since my 30s, so it has been over 20 years. Can I get better if I start treatment now, even with such long-standing thoracic outlet syndrome?

Accepted Answer

Just because it is old does not mean treatment is impossible. However, since adhesions and tissue degeneration have progressed, recovery requires at least 3 to 6 months. It is also advisable to set a realistic goal of maintaining daily life without interference, rather than aiming for complete remission. After first checking for hand muscle atrophy, you can expect significant improvement through stepwise treatment.

Question 45

I am a 50-year-old factory worker. My MRI showed a herniated cervical disc, and I am also suspected of having thoracic outlet syndrome. How is treatment handled when both are present? Which side should be examined first?

Accepted Answer

It is common for cervical discs and thoracic outlet syndrome to coexist, a condition known as double crush syndrome. Since symptoms cannot be fully relieved by treating only one side when a nerve is compressed in two places, the principle is to evaluate and treat both the cervical spine and the thoracic outlet simultaneously.

Question 46

I am a 37-year-old mother who is not pregnant but is currently breastfeeding. I was diagnosed with Thoracic Outlet Syndrome because my arm became numb from carrying my second child. Is it safe to receive bee venom acupuncture or pharmacopuncture while breastfeeding?

Accepted Answer

Acupuncture treatment can be safely received even while breastfeeding. Bee venom acupuncture is administered starting with a small dose after a skin test to check for allergic reactions. During breastfeeding, treatment is generally administered conservatively, focusing primarily on acupuncture and low-irritation pharmacopuncture. If you inform us in advance that you are breastfeeding, we can design a treatment plan within a safe range.

Question 47

I am a housewife in my 40s. I have never even played tennis, but the doctor told me I have tennis elbow. Why on earth did this happen?

Accepted Answer

Contrary to its name, more than 90% of patients with tennis elbow (lateral epicondylitis) have nothing to do with tennis. It occurs when household chores involving repetitive wrist extension and twisting movements—such as washing dishes, wringing out rags, and carrying shopping bags—accumulate micro-damage to the tendons on the outside of the elbow. It is most common among housewives and those in occupations that involve heavy use of their hands.

Question 48

I am a self-employed male in my 50s. My elbow hurts; some days it feels like the outer side, while other days it feels like the inner side. What is the difference between tennis elbow and golf elbow?

Accepted Answer

Tennis elbow is a tendon issue on the outer side of the elbow (lateral epicondyle), while golf elbow is a tendon issue on the inner side (medial epicondyle). Tennis elbow involves damage to the origin of the muscles that extend the wrist, while golf elbow involves damage to the origin of the muscles that flex the wrist; thus, the location of the pain and the movements that trigger it differ. It is not uncommon for both areas to hurt simultaneously.

Question 49

I am a fitness trainer in my 30s. I have been suffering from tennis elbow for six months. Is acupuncture really effective? How is it different from just resting?

Accepted Answer

Unlike simple rest, acupuncture actively aids tendon recovery by increasing blood flow to the injured area and regulating pain signals. In particular, chronic tennis elbow lasting more than six months often involves advanced degenerative changes that do not heal with rest alone; therefore, treatment involving the release of adhesions and stimulation of regeneration using needles is necessary.

Question 50

I am a female office worker in my 40s. My elbow hurts, so why am I being told to take herbal medicine? I question whether I really need to take medication when it is just a localized issue.

Accepted Answer

Tendons are tissues with a poor blood supply, so if the body's overall recovery ability is low, they do not heal well with local treatment alone. Herbal medicine plays a role in supporting the effectiveness of acupuncture treatment by replenishing the Qi and blood that nourish the tendons and dissolving stagnant blood stasis at the site of injury. It is particularly valuable to use in conjunction with other treatments in cases of chronic conditions or frequent recurrence.

Question 51

I am a woman in my 50s who runs a restaurant. Are there any foods that help with the recovery from tennis elbow, or foods that I should avoid?

Accepted Answer

Protein, vitamin C, and nutrients necessary for collagen synthesis are important for tendon recovery. Conversely, excessive alcohol consumption, an overconsumption of sugary foods, and a diet heavy in flour can worsen the inflammatory environment and slow down recovery. From a Korean medicine perspective, it is advisable to reduce greasy and cold foods that generate dampness.

Question 52

I am a hairdresser in my 40s. I cannot take time off work, so I would like to know which daily movements worsen tennis elbow so I can avoid them.

Accepted Answer

Movements involving applying force while bending the wrist upward and gripping and twisting objects are typical aggravating factors. This includes lifting a hairdryer, cutting with scissors, wringing out a rag, lifting a heavy fan, and using a mouse with the wrist bent. Holding objects with your palm facing upward and developing the habit of using your entire arm and torso instead of just your wrist reduces the strain.

Question 53

I am a man in my 50s. I am currently taking anti-inflammatory painkillers prescribed by an orthopedic clinic. Is it okay to receive herbal medicine or acupuncture treatment at the same time?

Accepted Answer

Yes, generally, it is possible to combine them. Anti-inflammatory painkillers and acupuncture do not conflict because they work through different mechanisms. When prescribing herbal medicine, please inform us of any medications you are currently taking so that we can formulate the regimen considering potential interactions. However, caution is required as continuing to use your arm while completely masking pain with painkillers can worsen the injury.

Question 54

I am a man in my 30s working at a logistics center. I have been diagnosed with tennis elbow; how long does it usually take to recover? I need to continue working.

Accepted Answer

For early-stage tennis elbow, it is realistic to expect a treatment period of 4 to 8 weeks, while for chronic cases lasting more than 6 months, it is advisable to expect a treatment period of 2 to 3 months or more. Recovery may take longer if you continue working, but improvement is possible while working if you combine treatment with adjustments to your work routine. Due to the nature of tendon tissue, treatment must be continued for a certain period even after pain subsides to prevent recurrence.

Question 55

I am a housewife in my 40s. I suffered from tennis elbow last year and recovered, but recently the same spot has started hurting again. Is it normal for tennis elbow to recur this frequently?

Accepted Answer

Yes, tennis elbow is a condition where recurrence is common. Even if the pain disappears, if tendon degeneration and weakening remain, it is easy to experience pain again when the same usage pattern is repeated. To prevent recurrence, it is necessary to continue tendon-strengthening exercises even after pain subsides and to implement fundamental management to create a body condition that allows the tendons to recover properly.

Question 56

I am a male office worker in my 50s. Please tell me about stretches or exercises that are good for tennis elbow. Something I can do at home every day.

Accepted Answer

Extensor stretches and eccentric strengthening exercises are basic exercises with proven effectiveness. You should consistently perform stretches 3 to 5 times a day, where you extend your arm and pull the back of your hand downward, holding for 15 to 30 seconds, and eccentric exercises 10 to 15 times a day, where you slowly lower your wrist while holding a light dumbbell. Avoid strenuous exercise during the acute phase when pain is severe.

Question 57

I am a woman in my 30s who runs a cafe. Is ice packs or hot packs better for tennis elbow? I am confused because the information on the internet is inconsistent.

Accepted Answer

The basic principle is to use ice packs for the first 2-3 days immediately after injury or during the acute phase when pain suddenly intensifies, and then switch to hot packs in the subsequent chronic phase. Since chronic tennis elbow is caused by a lack of blood flow rather than inflammation, warming the skin to aid blood circulation is more beneficial for recovery. You may choose whichever method is more comfortable for you based on your pain pattern.

Question 58

I am an office worker in my 40s commuting from Dongincheon. How often do I need to come in for tennis elbow treatment? It is very difficult to find time on weekdays.

Accepted Answer

Generally, we recommend a schedule of twice a week for the first 2 to 4 weeks, gradually reducing it to once a week as the condition improves. For office workers, it is often possible to manage the condition by combining intensive treatment once a week with self-exercise. During the initial consultation, we will check the condition of the tendons via ultrasound and develop a realistic treatment plan that fits your work schedule.

Question 59

I am a woman in my 50s. I was recommended moxibustion treatment for tennis elbow, but I am scared because I heard the needles are thicker than regular needles. Is it safe? Are there any side effects?

Accepted Answer

Dochim is an acupuncture needle with a fine, blade-like tip. When performed under ultrasound guidance, it offers high safety as it allows for precise treatment of adhesion sites while avoiding nerves and blood vessels. You may experience soreness or mild bruising for 1 to 3 days after the procedure, but these usually disappear naturally. The risk of infection is also very low due to the use of disposable, sterile needles.

Question 60

I am a delivery driver in my 40s. In what order is the Korean medicine treatment for tennis elbow carried out? I am curious about the entire process from start to finish.

Accepted Answer

First, the extent of tendon damage is assessed using ultrasound. Treatment begins with acupuncture and pharmacopuncture, and as the condition improves, the intensity is increased through moxibustion (adhesion release), followed by fire acupuncture and thread embedding (regeneration promotion). Simultaneously, herbal medicine tailored to the patient's constitution is used to boost the body's recovery capabilities. A treatment plan ranging from 4 weeks to 3 months is established, depending on the severity of the damage.

Question 61

I am a female office worker in my 30s. What tests and treatments can I expect when visiting a Korean medicine clinic for the first time for tennis elbow? Do I receive acupuncture starting on the first day?

Accepted Answer

During the initial consultation, we assess the pattern of pain through a medical history and physical examination, and directly verify the extent of tendon damage using ultrasound. If abnormalities are confirmed, acupuncture or pharmacopuncture treatment can usually begin on the first day. Higher-level procedures, such as moxibustion, are scheduled and performed only if necessary after evaluating the condition.

Question 62

I am a self-employed man in my 50s. The orthopedic clinic even mentioned surgery, but is there really a possibility of recovery through Korean medicine treatment without surgery?

Accepted Answer

More than 90% of tennis elbow patients recover with conservative treatment without surgery. Surgery is a last resort considered only for a small minority who have not responded to aggressive conservative treatment for over a year. Korean medicine treatments aimed at tendon regeneration, such as moxibustion and fire acupuncture, are conservative treatments well worth trying before surgery.

Question 63

I am a woman in my 40s who runs a small workshop in Dong-gu, Incheon. I have received steroid injections three times, but the effect is only temporary and the condition keeps recurring. Can this case also be improved with Korean traditional medicine treatment?

Accepted Answer

Yes, in fact, when the response to steroid injections is short-lived, it is precisely the time to switch to regenerative-focused treatment. While steroids quickly reduce pain, they do not aid in tendon regeneration, and repeated injections can further weaken the tendons. Approaches that induce the recovery of the tendons themselves, such as moxibustion, fire acupuncture, and thread embedding, are suitable for people like this.

Question 64

I am a male developer in my 40s. I was diagnosed with tennis elbow, but my neck and shoulders are also constantly stiff. Are they related, or did they develop separately?

Accepted Answer

It is highly likely that they are related. Nerve irritation in the neck (cervical spine) or tension in the shoulder and back muscles disrupts the muscle usage patterns of the arm, creating an overload on the elbow tendons. Additionally, referred pain from cervical discs can appear in locations similar to those of tennis elbow. If the condition does not improve with treatment of only the elbow, the neck and shoulders must be examined together.

통증·인대·관절 치료와 재발 관리 가이드

Conditions

통증·인대·관절 치료와 재발 관리 가이드 is not just a simple symptom