Q What kind of treatment do I receive if I visit a Korean medicine clinic in the early stages of patellar tendinitis? I would like to know what is done during the first visit.
A During the initial consultation, the onset time, location of pain, and aggravating factors are identified through a medical history and physical examination, and an ultrasound examination is performed if necessary. Treatment begins with acupuncture to reduce swelling and heat, electrical stimulation, cold compresses, and taping, with the addition of pharmacopuncture to enhance local anti-inflammatory effects.
Detailed Answer
The primary goal of acute patellar tendinitis is to reduce pain and swelling and prevent further tendon damage. During the initial consultation at a Korean medicine clinic, the NRS pain scale is used, tenderness sites (inferior pole of the patella, body of the patellar tendon, tibial tuberosity), and special patellar tests (such as the Royal London Hospital test) are performed. Checking tendon thickness, internal echo changes, and the presence of increased blood flow via ultrasound helps in determining the severity. Acupuncture stimulation promotes the circulation of Qi and blood by selecting key acupoints along the meridians around the knee, while pharmacopuncture is used to provide local anti-inflammation.
Korean Medicine Clinic Perspective
During the acute phase, a sensation of heat and stagnation of Qi are dominant. Acupuncture needles are inserted into points that reinforce Qi and blood around the knee to unblock stagnant Qi and blood, and heat is cooled using bee venom and Coptis rhizome-based pharmacopuncture. Dochim (sliced needles) are not yet the optimal time at this stage and are applied 2 to 4 weeks after the acute reaction has subsided. At Dongjedang, we assess the patient's constitution even during acute treatment to formulate a treatment plan for subsequent stages.
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