Can Traditional Chinese Medicine Cure Venous Inflammation?

Can traditional Chinese medicine cure phlebitis?

Dear Doctor, four months ago I developed deep vein thrombosis (DVT) in my calf due to tight bandaging from an injury.
After taking anticoagulants, a follow-up ultrasound two weeks later showed no clots.
Currently, after walking about 5 minutes daily, my calf becomes increasingly stiff, and in the afternoon, the stiffness extends to the front part of my thigh.
However, after lying down and elevating my legs for half an hour, it softens, with swelling around 4%.
The Western medicine diagnosis is venous inflammation caused by venous insufficiency (not superficial varicose veins).
When driving, my calf feels extremely tight and uncomfortable.
I would like to know if there are any cases of traditional Chinese medicine successfully treating venous inflammation.

Da A, 40~49 year old female. Ask Date: 2015/11/04

Dr. Yang Junkui reply Traditional Chinese Medicine

Ancient Chinese medicine has long had cases of treating venous inflammation.
According to your description, if the inflammation persists after embolization, it is advisable to consult a traditional Chinese medicine practitioner for targeted treatment, in conjunction with Western medical care, which should facilitate gradual healing.
Additionally, it is recommended to drink warm water, avoid cold foods such as melons, and engage in warm water swimming to promote smooth circulation in the lower limbs.

Reply Date: 2015/11/04

More Info

Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) has a long history of treating various health conditions, including venous inflammation, also known as phlebitis. In your case, you have experienced deep vein thrombosis (DVT) due to tight bandaging, which subsequently led to venous inflammation. While Western medicine has effectively managed your condition through anticoagulants and monitoring, you are seeking additional support through TCM.

There are indeed documented cases where TCM has been used to treat venous inflammation. TCM approaches health from a holistic perspective, focusing on restoring balance within the body. It emphasizes the importance of improving blood circulation and reducing inflammation, which are crucial in managing venous issues. TCM practitioners may use a combination of herbal remedies, acupuncture, dietary recommendations, and lifestyle changes to address symptoms and promote healing.

In your situation, the symptoms you describe—hardness in the calf after walking and the extension of discomfort to the thigh—suggest that there may be stagnation of blood flow or Qi (vital energy) in the affected areas. TCM treatments often aim to invigorate blood circulation and dispel stagnation. For instance, herbs such as Dan Shen (Salvia miltiorrhiza) and Hong Hua (Carthamus tinctorius) are commonly used to promote blood flow and alleviate pain. Acupuncture may also be beneficial in stimulating circulation and reducing inflammation.

It is essential to consult a qualified TCM practitioner who can assess your specific condition and tailor a treatment plan to your needs. They will consider your overall health, the severity of your symptoms, and any underlying conditions before recommending a course of treatment. Combining TCM with your current Western medical treatment can be beneficial, but it is crucial to communicate with both your Western and TCM healthcare providers to avoid any potential interactions or complications.

In addition to herbal treatments, TCM also emphasizes lifestyle modifications. For instance, staying hydrated with warm water, avoiding cold foods, and engaging in gentle exercises like swimming can help improve circulation in your lower extremities. These practices align with TCM principles of promoting Yang energy and enhancing blood flow.

While TCM has shown promise in treating venous inflammation, it is important to manage expectations. Healing may take time, and results can vary from person to person. Regular follow-ups with both your Western and TCM practitioners will help monitor your progress and make necessary adjustments to your treatment plan.

In summary, TCM can offer supportive care for venous inflammation, and there are successful cases of its application. However, it is vital to approach this integrative treatment method with careful consideration and professional guidance. By working collaboratively with both TCM and Western medicine, you can optimize your recovery and improve your overall well-being.

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