
Q I was recommended surgery by an orthopedic surgeon; can I receive treatment at a Korean medicine clinic without surgery?
A Even if the calcification is large (2cm or more), it is well worth attempting moxibustion, fire acupuncture, and ultrasound-guided treatments before surgery. Surgery (arthroscopic calcification removal) is a last resort considered when conservative treatment fails for more than 6 months. Since there are cases where surgery has been avoided or postponed through treatment at a Korean medicine clinic, we recommend trying intensive treatment first.
Detailed Answer
Arthroscopic calcification removal surgery is effective and has a low recurrence rate, but it carries a risk of anesthetic side effects and a post-operative recovery period (6 weeks to 3 months). Indications for surgery are generally ① non-response to conservative treatment for more than 6 months, ② calcification size of 1.5–2cm or larger, and ③ concomitant tendon rupture. If these conditions are not met, you can try intensive Korean medicine treatment first. We have clinical experience in achieving recovery without surgery or reducing the scope of surgery through moxibustion, fire acupuncture, and ultrasound-guided treatment. Korean Medicine Clinic Perspective In Korean medicine, even if calcium deposits are surgically removed, recurrence is considered possible if the internal environment of the "dam" (a substance that produced the deposits) remains unchanged. At Dongjedang, even for patients recommended for surgery, we advise attempting 8 to 12 weeks of intensive moxibustion treatment, provided there is no structural damage such as tendon rupture. We practice honest medical management by tracking treatment responses via ultrasound and recommending surgery only if there is no improvement.
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