Shoulder Impingement

While NSAIDs (such as ibuprofen and naproxen) reduce inflammation by inhibiting COX enzymes, herbal medicine acts through a different mechanism using natural ingredients to aid in Qi and blood circulation and tissue recovery. In most cases, concurrent use is possible; however, prescription coordination is required if you are taking anticoagulants or antiplatelet agents along with certain herbal medicines that have blood-thinning effects (such as Salvia miltiorrhiza, Ligusticum chuanxiong, and Carthamus tinctorius). If you have impaired liver function, you must inform us in advance, as the hepatic metabolic burden of the two medications may overlap. At Dongjedang, we identify all medications currently being taken during the initial consultation before prescribing. When taking anti-inflammatory painkillers, we formulate prescriptions focused on resolving blood stasis and reinforcing Qi and blood, while minimizing the burden on the gastrointestinal tract; we also adjust the ingredients of pharmacopuncture to avoid overlapping stimulation. By coordinating the timing of discontinuing anti-inflammatory painkillers with the intensity of the Korean medicine treatment, you can gradually reduce drug dependence.