TCM‘s Pain Management

Article contributed Physician Zhou Xiao Wei (Senior Pain Consultant /Therapist)

Pain is the feeling of discomfort, distress and possibly agony, depending on the severity. While acute pain is of short duration, chronic pain is an ongoing condition, such as back pain, neck pain, headaches and pain related to illness. Illness where pain is the most important symptom experienced can be called ‘pain syndrome’.

TCM’s Definition of Pain

TCM’s definition of pain depends on the concept of Yin and Yang. According to Traditional Chinese Medicine, pain is an imbalance between Qi (energy) and blood. Whenever there is obstruction in the flow of Qi and Blood, the organs start functioning improperly, resulting in pain. TCM believes that the pain is further aggravated or alleviated by the emotional state of the patient. TCM sees no difference between physical and emotional pain, terming it “bodymind.”

Pain Relief Treatment

At Si En TCM Medical Clinic, Singapore, we treat pain, including headache, neck pain, lower back pain, shoulder ache, waist and appendages pain and thoracoabdominal pain among many others. Before treatment, our physicians get a detailed history of the patient’s ailment, including his/her diet, exercise and sleeping habits.

We also examine the patient’s tongue, skin colour, pulse, hair, urine and breath. We use a combination of acupuncture and herbal medicines to treat pain. With TCM, we will improve your ability to deal with pain and combat negative emotions such as anxiety, fear, stress and frustration. Our effective treatment will reduce your level of pain and increase your capability to perform everyday functions.

Lower Back Pain Treatment

Lower back pain is caused by weakness and discomfort on one or both sides of the lower thoracic, sacral, lumbar or buttock areas. Traditional Chinese Medicine successfully treats lower back pain with acupuncture and herbal medicine. Stagnant Qi (inner energy) in lower back is deemed to be the reason for pain or discomfort in that area. With acupuncture, the inserted needles will break up this stagnation, thereby enabling Qi to move freely within these channels, thus easing lower back pain. Acupuncture is the most preferred treatment for acute lower back pain. Herbal medicine also treats lower back pain by increasing Qi and blood movement in that area.