Do We Really Understand Western Medical Procedures?
By Winston Lee, L.Ac., Ph.D., KMD
As acupuncturists, our responsibilities extend beyond mastering Eastern medical theory. To truly serve our patients, we must also develop a clear understanding of Western medical procedures, surgeries, and diagnostic tests.
A significant part of the initial consultation involves listening to patients describe treatments they previously received in Western medical settings. Although we are not Western medical doctors, it is essential that we understand the terminology patients use when referring to injections, procedures, and surgeries. Many patients themselves do not fully understand what those treatments involve.
We should be able to explain the purpose, strengths, and limitations of Western interventions while clarifying how acupuncture and herbal medicine can complement them. When these connections are clearly presented, patients better appreciate the continued relevance of Eastern medicine in managing their conditions.
Consider a patient with neck pain who reports temporary relief after a cervical epidural steroid injection, followed by a gradual return of symptoms and a recommendation for surgery. To guide such a patient effectively, we must understand the procedure in practical terms.
Cervical epidural injections, administered through interlaminar or transforaminal approaches, combine a corticosteroid to reduce inflammation with a local anesthetic for short-term pain relief. While symptoms may improve for several weeks, the underlying disc or nerve pathology often remains. The advantage is rapid, non-surgical relief; however, the effects are usually temporary, and repeated injections carry potential risks.
With this understanding, we can explain how acupuncture differs in its therapeutic goal by addressing muscle tension, circulation, and functional imbalance to support longer-term recovery rather than short-term pain suppression.
Now consider a patient with chronic low back pain who received epidural steroid injections four years ago and underwent a lumbar discectomy three years ago. As symptoms worsen again, the patient seeks acupuncture treatment. In the lumbar spine, epidural injections may be administered via caudal, interlaminar, or transforaminal approaches, each targeting inflammation around the nerve roots. These injections can be helpful for acute flare-ups but often do not prevent recurrence if spinal instability, muscle imbalance, or scar tissue persists.
A discectomy removes part of a herniated disc to relieve pressure on a nerve root. Although highly effective in reducing severe leg pain, it does not correct underlying biomechanical stress or muscular imbalance. Scar tissue formation, reduced spinal flexibility, and weakened supporting muscles are common after surgery.
Here, acupuncture plays a valuable role. It may reduce post-surgical inflammation, relax tight muscles, improve circulation around scar tissue, and support functional recovery. Consistent Eastern medical care may also help reduce recurrence and the likelihood of additional surgery.
Our education should extend beyond Eastern medicine to include a working understanding of Western procedures and ongoing advances in modern healthcare. Staying informed through medical texts and peer-reviewed resources helps us better interpret our patients’ histories.
When we are knowledgeable in both systems, patients feel heard and understood, fostering greater trust. This broader perspective supports more accurate clinical decisions and more effective treatment. Ultimately, understanding Western medicine strengthens our professional identity by enabling us to bridge both systems and provide clear, confident, and truly patient-centered care.
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