Intercostal Neuralgia

Modern medical treatment for intercostal neuralgia primarily consists of analgesics (NSAIDs, gabapentin, pregabalin), nerve block injections, and antivirals (when caused by herpes zoster). While effective for symptom relief, these treatments have limitations in restoring the nerve itself or resolving fascial adhesions. In Korean medicine, intercostal neuralgia is viewed as a state of Qi and blood stagnation and adhesion surrounding the nerve; therefore, treatments that directly resolve these conditions are possible. Acupuncture stimulation along the Foot Jueyin Liver Meridian and Foot Shaoyang Gallbladder Meridian restores the flow of Qi and blood within the meridians and regulates pain transmission pathways. Dochim (sliced needles) separate physical adhesions between the chest wall fascia and intercostal tissues, thereby altering the very environment in which the nerve is compressed. Pharmacopuncture simultaneously supports anti-inflammatory effects around the nerve and tissue regeneration. This approach, which improves the entire surrounding nerve environment, is particularly effective for chronic intercostal neuralgia.