Q If I treat trigeminal neuralgia with Korean medicine, in what specific order does it proceed?
A First we reduce acute attacks with facial pharmacopuncture and heat-clearing prescriptions; next we restore qi and blood circulation through blood-activating, stasis-resolving therapy; and finally we stabilize the nerve's hypersensitive state. At each stage, we combine herbal medicine, acupuncture, and pharmacopuncture.
Detailed Answer
Treatment proceeds broadly in three stages. In the first stage, we focus on cooling the Fire-Heat with facial pharmacopuncture and Cheongsang-bangpung-tang (Clear-the-Upper Wind-Dispelling decoction) family prescriptions, reducing the frequency and intensity of acute attacks. In the second stage, through blood-activating and stasis-resolving therapy (hwalhyeol-hwaeo), we restore qi and blood circulation around the nerve and dissolve blood stasis, improving the environment so the nerve is properly nourished. In the third stage, we conclude by stabilizing the hypersensitive state of the nervous system and lowering the frequency of recurrence.
Korean Medicine Clinic Perspective
At Dongjedang, in the early stage of frequent attacks we mainly perform facial pharmacopuncture once every two weeks, and once stable, we maintain with monthly herbal medicine. If you are taking carbamazepine, we proceed in parallel, communicating with your attending physician to gradually reduce the dosage stage by stage.
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Q
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