Blog & Columns
Useful information about health and Korean medicine.
Total 712 posts
Bell's Palsy: When Treatment Is Needed
Hello, I am Choi Yeon-seung, Chief Director of Baekrokdam Korean Medicine Clinic. Today, I would like to delve deeper into taste disorders, specifically among the various after-effects experienced following Bell's Palsy.
Hyperhidrosis: The Discomfort of Sweaty Hands and Feet
Hello, this is Choi Yeonsung, Chief Director of Baeknokdam Korean Medicine Clinic. Today, I'd like to delve into palmar-plantar hyperhidrosis, a condition particularly characterized by excessive sweating on the hands and feet. For those experiencing daily inconvenience due to damp hands and feet, I hope to explore solutions from the perspective of Korean medicine...
Hives Treatment: Why Do They Keep Recurring?
Hello. This is Director Choi Yeon-seung. Today, I'd like to talk about cases where urticaria frequently recurs.
Depression: Healing Suppressed Emotions
Hello, I am Chief Physician Yeonseung Choi from Baekrokdam Korean Medicine Clinic. Today, we will explore depression, a mental illness that diminishes the quality of life for many people. We will examine the causes of depression from the perspective of Traditional Korean Medicine and introduce Traditional Korean Medicine treatments that heal ailments of the mind....
Should I Treat Pityriasis Rosea?
<p>Hello. This is Chief Director Choi Yeon-seung.<br> <br> Today, let's learn more about <strong>TMJ Botox</strong>.<br> <p>TMJ Botox is a type of Botox procedure,<br> a treatment method used to relieve pain and discomfort caused by temporomandibular joint dysfunction.<br> <p>Botox has the effect of temporarily paralyzing muscle contractions by inhibiting the secretion of neurotransmitters.<br> Utilizing this effect, by injecting Botox into the muscles around the temporomandibular joint—the masseter muscle and the temporalis muscle—<br> the principle of TMJ Botox is to relieve excessive muscle tension and reduce the burden on the temporomandibular joint.<br> <p>While Botox for square jaw is often administered for cosmetic purposes,<br> TMJ Botox is used to treat symptoms such as asymmetry, pain, limited mouth opening, TMJ sounds, bruxism, and clenching.<br> <strong>it is primarily used to alleviate symptoms of temporomandibular joint disorders.</strong><br> <p>It can also be used to relieve symptoms such as chronic headaches, migraines, and spasms.<br> <p>Botox also has the effect of reducing muscle mass, which helps correct square jaws caused by masticatory muscle hypertrophy.<br> <p>Generally, Botox procedures are safe and effective treatments,<br> but it is important to determine the appropriate dosage and injection sites based on the individual's condition.<br> <p>It is necessary to consult sufficiently with medical professionals for accurate diagnosis and treatment planning,<br> and it is important to follow pre- and post-procedure precautions carefully.<br> <p>Occasionally, there is a misunderstanding that Botox weakens bones,<br> but Botox is a medication that acts on muscles and does not directly affect bone density or strength.<br> <p>However, if Botox procedures are repeated over a long period, muscle usage decreases,<br> and this can lead to subtle changes in bone density as the stimulus applied to the bone in that area is reduced.<br> <p>This is similar to the principle where astronauts who stay in a zero-gravity environment for an extended period<br> experience a decrease in bone density.<br> <p>However, this is a <strong>very minimal change</strong>,<br> and typical frequencies and intervals of Botox procedures do not significantly impact health.<br> <p>Furthermore, if there is concern about bone density loss, it is important to confirm the individual's condition through precise diagnosis, such as bone density tests or X-ray images, prior to the procedure.<br> <p>Potential side effects that may occur during TMJ Botox treatment are as follows:<br> <p><strong>Temporary Paralysis:</strong> Temporary paralysis of muscles around the injection site may occur.<br> This is a natural phenomenon and usually resolves within a few days.<br> <p><strong>Salivary Gland Paralysis and Saliva Secretion Disorder:</strong> Rarely, it may affect the salivary glands, leading to problems with saliva secretion.<br> <p><strong>Worsening Facial Asymmetry:</strong> If pre-existing facial asymmetry is severe, Botox treatment may temporarily worsen it.<br> <p>Most of these side effects are mild and temporary,<br> but if severe side effects occur, you should consult with medical professionals immediately.<br> <p>For a safe procedure, it is important to receive treatment from experienced medical professionals,<br> and a suitable treatment plan for the individual should be established through sufficient pre-procedure examinations and consultations.<br>
Chronic Gastritis: Experiencing Sharp Stomach Pain?
<p>Hello, I am Dr. Choi Yeon-seung, the head director of Baengnokdam Korean Medicine Clinic.</p> <p>After years of research, I am finally able to introduce <b>Baengnokdam Korean Medicine Clinic's new treatment method</b>, which I personally developed and have been administering.</p> <p>This treatment method is highly effective for intractable skin conditions such as <b>atopic dermatitis, seborrheic dermatitis, and dyshidrotic eczema</b>, for which satisfactory results were difficult to achieve with existing moxibustion or acupuncture treatments alone.</p> <p>Baengnokdam Korean Medicine Clinic's new treatment method <b>focuses on resolving the root cause of skin diseases</b>.</p> <p>Beyond simply alleviating symptoms, it aims to correct internal imbalances in the body and <b>restore the skin's inherent regenerative power and immunity</b>.</p> <p>This approach lowers the recurrence rate and will contribute to <b>improving patients' quality of life</b> from a long-term perspective.</p> <p>If you have any further questions about the new treatment method or wish to consult, please do not hesitate to contact Baengnokdam Korean Medicine Clinic at any time.</p>
Folliculitis, My Scalp is Itchy
<p>Hello, I am Choi Yeon-seung, the Head Director of Baekrokdam Korean Medicine Clinic.</p> <p>Today, I'd like to answer one of the questions I often hear: <strong>'Does insurance cover Korean medicine clinics?'</strong></p> <p>To give you the conclusion upfront: <strong>'Yes, it does!'</strong></p> <p>However, not all Korean medicine treatments are covered by insurance. Shall we take a closer look at which treatments are covered and which are non-reimbursable items?</p> <h3><strong>Types of Insurance-Covered Treatments at Korean Medicine Clinics</strong></h3> <p>Treatments covered by insurance at Korean medicine clinics can be broadly divided into two categories:</p> <ol> <li><strong>National Health Insurance (Health Insurance) covered treatments</strong></li> <li><strong>Private Indemnity Medical Insurance (Actual Loss Medical Insurance) covered treatments</strong></li> </ol> <p>Let's look at each case in more detail.</p> <h4><strong>1. National Health Insurance (Health Insurance) Covered Treatments</strong></h4> <p>National Health Insurance is a public insurance program that all citizens in Korea are obligated to join. Korean medicine clinics also offer treatments that benefit from this health insurance.</p> <p>Mainly <strong>acupuncture, moxibustion, cupping therapy, Korean Traditional Medicine physical therapy, Chuna manual therapy, and some herbal medicine prescriptions</strong> are covered by National Health Insurance.</p> <ul> <li><strong>Acupuncture (침):</strong> Used for various conditions such as pain relief, inflammation reduction, and improving the circulation of vital energy and blood (기혈).</li> <li><strong>Moxibustion (뜸):</strong> Helps improve the circulation of vital energy and blood (기혈) and boosts immunity through warm thermal stimulation.</li> <li><strong>Cupping therapy (부항):</strong> Promotes blood circulation and relieves pain using negative pressure.</li> <li><strong>Korean Traditional Medicine Physical Therapy (한방물리요법):</strong> A physical therapy that uses heat, electricity, light, etc., effective for muscle relaxation and pain relief.</li> <li><strong>Chuna Manual Therapy (추나요법):</strong> A treatment method where a Korean medicine doctor uses their hands or parts of their body to adjust and balance the patient's bodily structure. It is mainly applied to musculoskeletal disorders.</li> <li><strong>Some herbal medicine prescriptions (일부 한약 처방):</strong> Not all herbal medicines are covered by health insurance; only specific herbal medicine prescriptions for certain diseases are covered. (e.g., common cold, indigestion, etc.)</li> </ul> <p>These treatments are relatively affordable, with the patient's co-payment typically ranging from approximately 30% to 60%.</p>
Postherpetic Neuralgia: When Recovery Is Slow
<p>Hello, this is Baekrokdam Korean Medicine Clinic.</p> <p>Today, we'd like to talk about <b>frozen shoulder</b>.</p> <p><b>Frozen shoulder</b>, one of the most common shoulder conditions, refers to a disorder where shoulder joint movement becomes stiff and painful.</p> <p>The accurate medical terms are <b>adhesive capsulitis</b>, or <b>frozen shoulder</b>.</p> <p>Although "Oshipgyeon" (literally "fifty-shoulder") was named because it primarily occurs after the age of 50, it has recently become common among younger individuals in their 30s and 40s.</p> <p>Furthermore, it doesn't only affect one shoulder; it often occurs simultaneously in both shoulders, or affects the other shoulder after an initial occurrence in one.</p> <p>The main symptoms of frozen shoulder are shoulder pain accompanied by restricted movement.</p> <p>Severe pain is particularly felt during movements such as raising the arm upwards, reaching behind the back, or rotating the arm.</p> <p>The pain often worsens at night, leading to disturbed sleep.</p> <p>While frozen shoulder can sometimes heal naturally, if left untreated, it can lead to chronic pain and permanent restriction of shoulder joint movement, making early diagnosis and treatment crucial.</p> <p>At Baekrokdam Korean Medicine Clinic, we offer various traditional Korean medicine treatments for frozen shoulder, including <b>acupuncture</b>, <b>moxibustion</b>, <b>cupping</b>, and <b>herbal medicine</b>.</p> <p><b>Acupuncture</b> therapy stimulates acupoints around the shoulder, helping to improve Qi and blood circulation and alleviate pain.</p> <p><b>Moxibustion</b> therapy utilizes warmth to relax muscles around the shoulder and promote blood circulation, thereby reducing pain.</p> <p><b>Cupping</b> therapy applies negative pressure to the skin, helping to relax tight muscles around the shoulder and aid in the removal of metabolic waste.</p> <p><b>Herbal medicine</b> treatment identifies the underlying cause of frozen shoulder, rebalances the body, reduces inflammation in the shoulder joint, and promotes recovery.</p> <p>Baekrokdam Korean Medicine Clinic provides personalized treatment tailored to each patient's symptoms and body constitution.</p> <p>If you are suffering from frozen shoulder, please do not hesitate to visit Baekrokdam Korean Medicine Clinic for a consultation.</p> <p>We will do our utmost to help you regain healthy shoulders.</p> <p>Thank you.</p>
Occipital Neuralgia: If Pain Relievers and Nerve Blocks Don't Work
Hello, this is Baengnokdam Korean Medicine Clinic. Today, we will explore methods for relieving severe menstrual cramps. <br> Menstrual cramps are a common symptom experienced by approximately 50% of women, and they can be accompanied by various symptoms such as lower abdominal pain, lower back pain, headaches, and nausea. <br> The causes of menstrual cramps can be broadly divided into two types: <b><span style="font-size: 16pt;">Primary Dysmenorrhea</span></b> <br> This refers to menstrual pain that occurs without any specific underlying disease in the uterus or pelvis. It is caused by the excessive secretion of a substance called prostaglandin, which contracts the uterine muscles and thereby induces pain. <br> <b><span style="font-size: 16pt;">Secondary Dysmenorrhea</span></b> <br> This is menstrual pain caused by specific underlying conditions such as endometriosis, adenomyosis, or uterine fibroids. Compared to primary dysmenorrhea, the pain tends to be more severe and last longer. <br> <b><span style="font-size: 16pt;">Menstrual Cramp Relief Methods</span></b> <br> Since menstrual cramps are often severe enough to disrupt daily life, it's important to find appropriate relief methods. <br> <b>1. Warm Compress</b> <br> Applying a warm water bottle or hot pack to the lower abdomen promotes blood circulation and relaxes muscles, which helps alleviate pain. <br> <b>2. Light Exercise</b> <br> Light exercises such as yoga or stretching help improve blood circulation and promote endorphin secretion, thereby reducing pain. However, intense exercise can worsen the pain, so it's best to avoid it. <br> <b>3. Balanced Diet</b> <br> Consuming foods rich in Omega-3 fatty acids (e.g., fatty fish, nuts) and Vitamins B1, B6, and E can help reduce inflammation and alleviate pain. Caffeine and alcohol can worsen the pain, so it's advisable to reduce their consumption. <br> <b>4. Adequate Rest</b> <br> During your period, it's important to get enough rest to avoid straining your body. Since stress can be a factor that worsens menstrual cramps, it's also good to manage stress through meditation or deep breathing exercises. <br> <b>5. Traditional Korean Medicine Treatment</b> <br> If menstrual cramps are severe or become chronic, you may consider Traditional Korean Medicine (TKM) treatment. Treatments such as acupuncture, moxibustion, and herbal medicine can improve blood circulation in the uterus and pelvis and remove stagnant blood, thereby helping to fundamentally treat menstrual cramps. <br> <br> Menstrual cramps are a common symptom, but their causes and symptoms can vary. It's important to manage symptoms through the relief methods introduced above, and seek professional help if necessary. <br> If you have any questions, please feel free to contact Baengnokdam Korean Medicine Clinic anytime! <br> Thank you.
Generalized Urticaria: A Case in Early 50s Menopause
<p class="se-text-paragraph se-text-paragraph-align-left" id="SE-08d17a3a-59b3-4f93-b148-701979927cfc"> <span style="color:#000000;"> Welcome to Baengnokdam Korean Medicine Clinic. </span> </p> <p class="se-text-paragraph se-text-paragraph-align-left" id="SE-ce85d774-4b5c-42b8-933e-1b3a60a7e80d"> <span style="color:#000000;"> Today, we'll explore the early symptoms and treatment of plantar fasciitis. </span> </p> <p class="se-text-paragraph se-text-paragraph-align-left" id="SE-ce85d774-4b5c-42b8-933e-1b3a60a7e80d"> <span style="color:#000000;"> If you're experiencing pain in the sole of your foot, you might consider plantar fasciitis. </span> </p> <p class="se-text-paragraph se-text-paragraph-align-left" id="SE-d3e86c09-0d29-411a-85d7-1335b1d2e5a6"> <span style="color:#000000;"> Plantar fasciitis is an inflammatory condition affecting the plantar fascia, a thick band of tissue that covers the muscles in the sole of the foot. </span> </p> <p class="se-text-paragraph se-text-paragraph-align-left" id="SE-b7c10b4f-83ce-4191-88fc-84724b94f134"> <span style="color:#000000;"> According to statistical data from the Health Insurance Review & Assessment Service, the number of plantar fasciitis patients in 2021 reportedly exceeded a staggering 270,000. </span> </p> <p class="se-text-paragraph se-text-paragraph-align-left" id="SE-b7c10b4f-83ce-4191-88fc-84724b94f134"> <span style="color:#000000;"> Statistical Data from Health Insurance Review & Assessment Service (Source: National Health Insurance Service) </span> </p> <p class="se-text-paragraph se-text-paragraph-align-left" id="SE-7c385b0d-b778-43b9-a417-062e245a1c36"> <span style="color:#000000;"> The number of patients receiving medical treatment for plantar fasciitis in Korea has been steadily increasing. </span> </p> <p class="se-text-paragraph se-text-paragraph-align-left" id="SE-38ceb25d-2253-41e8-a1fc-3d2b2700e574"> <span style="color:#000000;"> This suggests that many people are suffering from plantar fasciitis. </span> </p> <p class="se-text-paragraph se-text-paragraph-align-left" id="SE-d5862b9a-4c27-46e3-80b1-3e4b7b25752c"> <span style="color:#000000;"> The primary symptom of plantar fasciitis is heel pain, </span> </p> <p class="se-text-paragraph se-text-paragraph-align-left" id="SE-5121b6d0-6029-43c3-8fce-4c28e8334ac1"> <span style="color:#000000;"> but in its early stages, it often goes untreated because it begins with mild discomfort. </span> </p> <p class="se-text-paragraph se-text-paragraph-align-left" id="SE-38a417dd-a5a5-4034-8c88-e9f5e3f3b925"> <span style="color:#000000;"> However, if neglected, it can lead to chronic pain, </span> </p> <p class="se-text-paragraph se-text-paragraph-align-left" id="SE-a864d4b1-8720-43ac-9b62-10f74a00ec18"> <span style="color:#000000;"> so it's crucial to proactively seek treatment when early symptoms appear. </span> </p> <p class="se-text-paragraph se-text-paragraph-align-left" id="SE-a864d4b1-8720-43ac-9b62-10f74a00ec18"> <span style="color:#000000;"> In this post, we'll delve into the early symptoms of plantar fasciitis, </span> </p> <p class="se-text-paragraph se-text-paragraph-align-left" id="SE-a864d4b1-8720-43ac-9b62-10f74a00ec18"> <span style="color:#000000;"> and also introduce Baengnokdam Korean Medicine Clinic's treatment methods for the condition. </span> </p>
Cold Urticaria in a 40-something Woman: Can Constitutional Improvement Resolve It?
안녕하세요 백록담한의원 입니다. 2024년 갑진년 새해가 밝았습니다. 새해에도 가정의 평안과 건강을 기원합니다. 2024년 진료시간 및 공휴일 휴진 안내드립니다. <br> <img src="https://blog.kakaocdn.net/dn/bH749/btsG7F46c1W/nOQoIKEB9nKN9Lg9fUq8E0/img.jpg" alt="2024년 백록담한의원 진료시간"> <br> <br> <b><span style="color:rgb(255,102,0)">*2024년 진료시간 변경사항 안내*</span></b> <br> <b>1. 2024년부터 점심시간 없이 진료합니다.</b> <br> <br> <b>2. 토요일 진료시간</b> <b>오전 9시 ~ 오후 3시 (점심시간 없음)</b> <br> <br> <b>3. 수요일 야간진료</b> <b>오전 9시 ~ 오후 8시 (점심시간 없음)</b> <br> <br> <b><span style="color:rgb(255,102,0)">*휴진 안내*</span></b> <br> <b>공휴일, 일요일은 휴진합니다.</b> <b>(단, 추석 및 설날 연휴 진료는 별도 안내 예정입니다.)</b> <br> <br> <b>궁금하신 점은 내원 또는 전화문의 주시면 친절하게 안내드리겠습니다.</b> <b><span style="font-size:15px">항상 저희 백록담한의원을 찾아주셔서 감사합니다.</span></b> <br> <br> <b><span style="font-size:15px">새해 복 많이 받으세요!</span></b>
Unstoppable Facial Itching in a Late-Teen Boy
A 19-year-old high school student started experiencing skin itching around their third year of middle school. The itching mainly affected the upper body, including the face and chest, and scratching frequently resulted in wounds and inflammation on the skin. Over time, the symptoms worsened, especially during the past year, a period with significant college entrance exam stress. Ga...