Ankle Sprain

Changes in ligaments due to aging: Decreased elasticity due to increased collagen cross-linking, reduced regenerative capacity due to reduced blood flow, and decreased density of proprioceptive receptors. Even with these changes, stimulation using needle acupuncture and thread embedding induces the secretion of growth factors (TGF-β and IGF-1) to promote collagen resynthesis. Pharmacopuncture improves local blood flow reduced by aging and regulates chronic inflammation. There are clinical studies showing significant improvements in functional scores after moxibustion treatment, even in elderly patients. Perspective of a Korean Medicine Clinic In Korean medicine, aging is explained by the depletion of kidney essence and a deficiency of blood in the liver. Consequently, bones, muscles, and ligaments fail to receive sufficient nutrition and become frail. In fact, for aging patients, Korean medical treatments that include the restoration of organ function are more effective than simple physical therapy. At Dongjedang, we strengthen the liver and kidneys with herbal medicine tailored to the patient's constitution and stimulate regeneration in aged ligaments using moxibustion and fire acupuncture, aiming for sufficient functional recovery—although slower than in younger patients.