Q How much improvement can be achieved with Korean medicine treatment alone, without surgery?
A For mild to moderate deformities (valgus angle of 40° or less), pain relief and recovery of walking function are possible without surgery. Pain reduction is usually felt within 4 to 8 weeks, and the effect of inhibiting deformity progression is maintained long-term when supported by consistent treatment and lifestyle modifications. For severe deformities (40° or more), it is more realistic to combine Korean medicine treatment during the rehabilitation phase after surgery.
Detailed Answer
The success criteria for non-surgical conservative treatment are not angle correction, but rather ① a reduction in pain VAS score of 50% or more, ② the ability to walk in daily activities, and ③ inhibition of deformity progression. In cases of mild deformities, patients often transition to maintenance management after 3 to 6 months of intensive treatment. For moderate cases, consistent management for over a year is required, while for severe cases, concurrent consultation with an orthopedic surgeon is recommended.
Korean Medicine Clinic Perspective
The prognosis in Korean medicine depends on the robustness of the functions responsible for digestion, metabolism, and the balance of body fluids, as well as the extent of accumulated hardened blood stasis and waste products. Those whose vitality and blood flow recover quickly experience a significant reduction in pain within 4 to 6 weeks, whereas those with a large accumulation of waste products require more time to change the internal environment using herbal medicine. At Dongjedang, we confirm tissue changes through ultrasound re-evaluation in the fourth week of treatment and adjust the direction of treatment.
Related FAQs
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Q
I have early-stage hallux valgus. Can I be completely cured if I start treatment now?
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Q
Is it possible to manage severe deformities with Korean medicine treatment without surgery?
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Q
I heard that having hallux valgus can also worsen knee and lower back problems.
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Q
Are there any foot exercises that help with hallux valgus?
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Are insoles or orthotics really effective?
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