Hip Pain

When sleeping, lying on your side on a firm mattress with a pillow between your knees maintains hip abduction, thereby reducing pressure. Sleeping on your stomach causes internal rotation of the hip, which exacerbates impingement syndrome and bursitis. Adjust the seat height of your chair so that your hip does not flex more than 90 degrees, and perform standing stretches every 30 to 45 minutes. If the toilet is too low, using an assistive device placed on the seat can be helpful. When using stairs, it is a principle to use the handrail and avoid stepping first with the painful leg. Korean Medicine Clinic Perspective In Korean medicine, incorrect sleeping posture is viewed as a cause that obstructs meridian flow and stiffens muscles and bones. When sleeping on the side of the hip, the meridians running through the side and leg are compressed, blocking the flow of Qi and blood; consequently, pain and stiffness worsen upon waking. At Dongjedang, during consultations, we examine sleeping posture, chair height, and movement patterns together to provide specific guidance on creating a daily environment that promotes the proper circulation of Qi and blood. Treatment and lifestyle management must work together to overcome the limitation of "improvement only within the treatment room." Korean medicine treatment changes the internal environment of the body, while lifestyle habits serve as the two pillars for maintaining that state.