How is pain assessed at a Korean medicine clinic?

When pain occurs, the first question is often “Where does it hurt?” However, even if the same area hurts, what needs to be examined differs depending on when it started, which movements are uncomfortable, and how much it affects daily life.

A Korean medicine doctor checks when and how the pain started, the painful area and the character of the pain, and postures that relieve or aggravate it. Knowing whether there was an injury, whether there is numbness or changes in strength, and what previous tests or treatments were received also aids the examination.

Depending on the need, movement in the painful area and responses to palpation are examined, as well as movements that typically cause discomfort, such as walking or rising from a chair. If numbness or weakness is present, sensation and muscle strength can also be evaluated together.

Based on history taking and physical examination, the Korean medicine doctor establishes a treatment plan tailored to the current condition. Chuna manual therapy, acupuncture, moxibustion, cupping, and pharmacopuncture are selected based on whether they are necessary and appropriate for the patient. Actual treatments provided may vary by clinic location.

If you experience sudden paralysis, altered consciousness, severe chest pain, shortness of breath, or severe pain following major trauma, seek an evaluation at an emergency department without delay.