De Quervain's Tenosynovitis

Local steroid injections administered by orthopedic surgeons are effective for short-term inflammation suppression, and a significant number of patients show improvement after one to two injections. However, in cases of chronic tenosynovitis where the tendons have already thickened, or in recurrent cases, the effect of the injection is short-lived, and there is a possibility of tendon weakening. Braces are useful for stability and protection, but they cannot reverse existing adhesions or fibrosis. Surgery (tendon sheath incision) is an option after conservative treatment fails. Perspective of Korean Medicine Clinics The strength of Korean medicine treatment lies in stimulating the regeneration of the muscle and vein tissue itself. Dochim (sedum needles) physically separates adhesive tissue within the thickened tendon sheath to lower tunnel pressure, while Hwachim (fire needles) and Meseon (thread threads) induce collagen reformation. Bee venom acupuncture and pharmacopuncture stimulate tissue regeneration factors along with anti-inflammatory effects. At Dongjedang, we utilize ultrasound guidance to accurately identify the lesion site during treatment. The key to preventing recurrence is to create a physical condition where tendons can receive proper nutrition by replenishing liver blood and kidney essence with herbal medicine tailored to one's constitution.