Q I would like to know the sequence of treatment for golfer's elbow. I am curious as this is my first time visiting a Korean medicine clinic.
A During the initial consultation, a medical history is taken, and the condition of the tendon is checked via ultrasound for medial epicondylar tenderness and resistance. Subsequently, depending on the stage of inflammation, treatment begins with acupuncture and pharmacopuncture, followed by the gradual addition of moxibustion needles and thread embedding. As symptoms improve, the treatment transitions to maintenance management. Throughout the entire process, corrective movements and guidance on self-exercise are provided.
Detailed Answer
Stage 1 — Initial Consultation & Assessment: Medial epicondylar tenderness, resistance test (Golfer's elbow test), and grip strength measurement. Ultrasound is used to check tendon thickness, echogenicity, and the presence of rupture. Stage 2 — Acute Phase Treatment (Weeks 1–4): Inflammation reduction and restoration of Qi and blood circulation using acupuncture and pharmacopuncture. Stage 3 — Deep Treatment (Weeks 4–8): Detachment of tendon adhesions using moxibustion needles and continuous regenerative stimulation using thread embedding. Stage 4 — Functional Recovery (Weeks 8–12 and beyond): Concurrent tendon strengthening exercises and management to prevent recurrence. Each stage is adjusted according to individual response.
Korean Medicine Clinic Perspective
The stages of Korean medicine treatment are a process of recovery that reverses the flow of illness, which deepens from Qi blockage to blood stagnation, and finally to a decline in vitality. Initially, superficial Qi blockage, heat, and inflammation are removed using acupuncture and pharmacopuncture. Subsequently, moxibustion is used to separate stagnant blood and tendon adhesions. In the chronic stage, thread embedding provides continuous regenerative stimulation while replenishing vitality with herbal medicine tailored to the body. This sequence is important because applying excessive stimulation before Qi and blood flow is restored can actually damage tissues. If you visit Dongjedang, located near Dongincheon and Dong-gu in Incheon, you can begin condition assessment and Stage 1 treatment on the same day as your initial consultation.
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