TCM For Pain Management: Ache, Pain, Sprains, Fractures

In general, our bodies are no strangers to discomfort throughout life's journey. Whether it's the throbbing muscle ache that follows a strenuous workout, the shooting nerve pain that tingles down the spine after a long day at the desk, or the sharp twinge from a bone sprain after an awkward fall, each type of pain brings its challenges. 

Distinguishing between muscle aches from overexertion, nerve pain from compression or injury, and bone sprains or fractures from sudden impact—allows us to tailor treatments accordingly.

What Are The Typical Interventions?

Muscle Ache

Characteristics:

• Dull, aching pain

• Often results from overexertion, tension, or minor strains

• Pain can be localised or widespread over the entire band of muscle

• Minor swelling may be present

Conventional Recommendations:

• Rest: Avoid strenuous activities that exert pressure on the group of muscles

• Heat Therapy: Warm compress or heat packs help with blood flow to the localised muscle and ease tension

• Over-the-counter pain relievers: NSAIDs like ibuprofen

TCM Treatment:

• Acupuncture: To stimulate blood circulation, muscle relaxation and provide immediate pain relief

• Cupping therapy: To improve blood flow and release muscular tension

• Herbal remedies: Application of ointments containing herbs for muscle inflammation

• Tui Na massage: A form of Chinese acupressure massage

Nerve Pain

Characteristics:

• Sharp, shooting, or burning pain

• May be accompanied by tingling, numbness, or weakness

• Pain often follows the path of a nerve

• Commonly caused by conditions that involve nerve compression, like sciatica, carpal tunnel syndrome, or neuropathy

Conventional Recommendations:

• Rest: Avoid pressure on the affected nerve

• Medications: Such as anticonvulsants, antidepressants, or NSAIDs

• Physical therapy: Exercises to stretch and strengthen muscles and alleviate pressure on nerves

• Surgical intervention: In severe cases where conservative treatments fail

TCM Treatments:

• Acupuncture: To stimulate nerves, reduce nerve and muscle inflammation, and improve energy flow

• Moxibustion: Burning a herb (moxa) near the skin to warm regions and stimulate circulation and reduce pain and inflammation

• Herbal formulas: Promote blood flow, reduce inflammation, eliminate blood stasis, reduce muscle rigidity such as 红花，三七，伸筋草，乳香，没药，白芍

• Qigong exercises: To improve overall energy flow and reduce pain

Sprains or Fractures

Characteristics:

• Severe pain, especially with movement or pressure

• Swelling, bruising, and possible deformity

• Inability to bear weight or use the affected limb

• Audible snap or grinding noise at the time of injury (in fractures)

 Conventional Recommendations:

• Immediate medical attention: Especially for suspected fractures

• Immobilisation: Using splints or casts to prevent movement

• Rest, Ice and Elevation: To reduce swelling

• Pain management: NSAIDs or prescription pain relievers

• Physical therapy: After initial healing to restore function and strength

TCM Treatments for Sprains (24 hours after injury) or Fractures (after cast recovery):

• Acupuncture: To reduce swelling, inflammation, promote angiogenesis and manage pain

• Blood letting: To eliminate edema and blood clots from trauma site

• Herbal Medicated Paste (Ingredients): These pastes are applied directly to the affected area to reduce swelling, bruising and promote blood circulation:

1. Angelicae Dahuricae Radix

2. Angelicae Sinensis Radix

3. Paeoniae Rubra Radix

4. Scrophulariae Radix

5. Cinnamomi Cortex

6. Rhei Radix Et Rhizoma

7. Rehmanniae Radix

8. Momordicae Semen

9. Borneolum Syntheticum

10. Olibanum

11. Myrrha

12. Herbal Menthol

Other treatments not limited to specific conditions include bone setting techniques incorporating traditional methods for minor bone realignment, and dietary recommendations such as foods that strengthen bones and joints, like those rich in calcium and vitamin D.

Explore Best TCM in Singapore for Pain Management

At Common TCM, all of our physicians are highly experienced to diagnose and prescribe an appropriate treatment plan. We provide a variety of TCM treatments that can be effective for managing and treating muscle aches, nerve pain, bone sprains or fractures. Our services include:

• Acupuncture: Helps relieve muscle tension, nerve pain, and promotes healing of bone injuries

• Herbal Remedies and Formulas: Oral herbal prescriptions for enhanced recovery

• Cupping Therapy: Improves blood flow and alleviates muscle pain

• Tui Na Massage: A therapeutic massage technique for muscle relief

• Moxibustion: Utilises the warming properties of moxa to stimulate circulation and alleviate nerve pain

• Herbal Plasters and Poultices: Herbal medicated paste bandage

• Dietary Recommendations: To support bone health, incorporating foods rich in calcium and vitamin D

• Qigong Exercises: Enhance overall energy flow and reduce pain

Visit our TCM clinic in Singapore to explore these treatments and more, tailored to your specific needs for effective pain management and healing today!

Advisory for using TCM Treatment for Pain Management

Most importantly, do your research and seek advice from reputable professionals for an elevated healing experience. For more information, visit our website to learn more about our treatments and physicians or book an appointment. Your well-being is our priority, and we are here to support you on your journey towards better health.

Disclaimer: This article provides general information for understanding pain management and the potential benefits of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) treatments. It is important to note that these guidelines should not replace individualized medical advice or consultation with a qualified healthcare professional.