Q I have been diagnosed with trigger finger for the first time. In what order is the treatment conducted at the Korean medicine clinic? I am a male in my 40s.
A Upon the initial visit, we first confirm the stage of the condition and check the thickness of the tendon sheath and the presence of nodules via ultrasound evaluation. Then, we prioritize acupuncture and pharmacopuncture treatments to reduce acute inflammation. After 2 to 3 weeks, once inflammation subsides, we proceed with needle acupuncture to dissect the thickened A1 pulley. Subsequently, we promote tissue regeneration using fire acupuncture and thread embedding. In the final stage, we conclude with education on tendon strengthening exercises to prevent recurrence and a prescription of herbal medicine tailored to the patient's constitution.
Detailed Answer
Korean medicine treatment for trigger finger consists of four stages. ① Evaluation Stage (1 session): Ultrasound measurement of tendon sheath thickness, grade determination, and identification of underlying conditions. ② Anti-inflammatory Stage (1–3 weeks): Reduction of tendon sheath edema using acupuncture, bee venom acupuncture, and pharmacopuncture. ③ Dissection Stage (2–4 weeks): Dissection of fibrotic tissue in the A1 pulley using needle acupuncture and restoration of tendon gliding. ④ Regeneration Phase (4–8 weeks): Stimulate collagen synthesis with fire acupuncture and thread embedding, and improve the overall tissue environment through the concurrent use of herbal medicine. Each stage is adjusted according to the treatment response.
Korean Medicine Clinic Perspective
In Korean medicine, the treatment sequence follows the principle of focusing on alleviating symptoms first during urgent conditions, and shifting to addressing the root cause once the condition stabilizes. During the acute phase, pain is reduced by rapidly removing stagnant blood and heat toxins; during the stable phase, the focus shifts to treating the underlying causes, such as weakness of organs governing muscles, tendons, and recovery, as well as the stagnation of waste products in the digestive system. In the fire acupuncture and thread embedding stages following needle insertion, the principle of promoting tissue regeneration by adding warm energy is applied. At Dongjedang, we provide guidance on the progress and goals for each stage at every step to help patients understand this flow.
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