Ankle Osteoarthritis

In a randomized controlled trial, acupuncture treatment significantly improved VAS pain scores and AOFAS (American Oral and Foot Surgery Assessment) in ankle osteoarthritis. While cartilage loss itself cannot be restored, the improvement of the intra-articular inflammatory environment and the alleviation of nerve sensitization are the primary mechanisms for pain reduction. In Korean medicine, focusing on the meridian structure passing around the ankle, acupuncture is applied to areas of Qi and blood stagnation to restore Qi circulation and alleviate pain. Furthermore, Dochim (severed needle acupuncture) induces signals for tissue remodeling by separating adhered joint capsule and ligament fibers and stimulating the cross-section of soft tissues. At Dongjedang, following Dochim, we directly deliver anti-inflammatory substances to the area around the joint using pharmacopuncture and bee venom acupuncture. By adding constitution-tailored herbal medicine to replenish kidney energy and blood deficiencies, we aim to restore overall bodily balance beyond mere symptom relief.