Japanese and Korean Traditional Medicine

Thank you  Dr Seo-yun for those kind words for your comments in my article on: 

Healing Together: Blending Ancient Wisdom with

Modern Science in Healthcare 

 Yes, I did mentioned there about Korean and Japanese traditional medicine. Since you have mentioned about Korean and Japanese traditional medicine, let me take this opportunity to expand on them 

 Japan and Korea have developed their own unique traditional medicine systems, known as Japanese Kampo medicine and the traditional Korean medicine (TKM), respectively. While they share a common origin and underlying philosophical principles with Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM)

Japanese and Korean traditional medicine  have evolved with distinct cultural practices, theories, and therapeutic approaches, including different diagnostic methods, herbal formulas, and techniques like acupuncture. 
The origin of Traditional Korean Medicine (TKM) came
from Traditional Chinese Medicine but has become a distinct system with its own characteristics. Its key concept features a unique classification system called Sasang Constitutional Medicine, which categorizes individuals based on their physical traits, personality, and behavior to tailor treatments, according to The Soul of Seoul. TKM includes hanyak (herbal medicine), acupuncture, and other therapies.

Traditional Japanese Medicine (Kampo)
like TKM, Kampo is also based on TCM but has been adapted to Japanese culture and history. The Japanese emphasizes a differential diagnosis based on the patient's individual "Sho" (a condition of symptoms) when selecting herbal treatments.
Kampo includes Kampo-yaku (herbal medicine), acupuncture, and acupressure. There are similarities and differences, but a shared heritage. All three systems share common roots in the philosophies of Traditional Chinese Medicine, including practices like herbal medicine, acupuncture, moxibustion, and cupping.  However, they have diverged due to unique national histories, cultural influences, and different approaches to applying constitutional theory. For instance, Japanese acupuncture typically uses thinner needles than Chinese acupuncture, while Korean acupuncture may only use a specific number of needles. Please note China, Japan and South Korea are technologically very advanced countries with highly educated and intelligent citizens there, and yet like 80 % of the world population including the United States, the UK, Germany and Europe they prefer using traditional medicine effectively over allopathic medicine using chemicals as "medicines" that is  highly unsuitable for especially for modern lifestyle diseases  

Healing Together: Blending Ancient Wisdom with Modern Science in Healthcare

  

"Bridging Traditions: How the World Is Integrating Traditional and Modern Medicine" 

or shall we say - 

"East Meets West: The Global Movement to Unite Traditional and Modern Medicine"

 

Summary

 

Healthcare systems around the world are increasingly blending conventional medicine with traditional practices to create more holistic and sustainable models of care. China has led the way forward with its dual-training system, where doctors of both biomedicine and Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) are cross-trained here: 

Integrative Medical Education in China: Bridging Conventional and Traditional Systems (Part 1)

 

https://scientificlogic.blogspot.com/2025/09/integrative-medical-education-in-china.html

 

 

Integrative Medical Education in China: Bridging Traditional Chinese Medicine and Modern Biomedicine (Part 2)

 

https://scientificlogic.blogspot.com/2025/09/integrative-medical-education-in-china_13.html

 

 

South Korea and Japan have similar models, while Singapore and 

Malaysia integrate traditional practices under government regulation. 

In Europe, Italy stands out with university-level training in traditional medicine, while other countries are developing integrative health centers and certification programs. Globally, the World Health Organization (WHO) has given traditional medicine greater recognition by including it in the International Classification of Diseases (ICD-11) and creating frameworks to integrate systems such as Ayurveda and Unani.

Key factors that support integration include government policy, standardized education, and insurance coverage. Together, these ensure that traditional medicine complements modern science while maintaining safety and efficacy.

 

Expanded Essay: 

 

The integration of traditional medicine (TM) with conventional biomedical practice has become an increasingly important component of global healthcare. While modern medicine dominates in most parts of the world, many countries have sought to harmonize the two systems, recognizing the value of traditional practices that have been used for centuries. This integrative approach is seen most prominently in East Asia but is also gaining ground in Europe, North America, and Southeast Asia, supported by international frameworks such as those of the World Health Organization (WHO).

The Chinese Model: Dual Training and Practice

China has pioneered a dual system in which both conventional medicine and Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) are recognized and practiced side by side. Medical students in conventional programs are required to study approximately 30% TCM, while TCM students must study about 30% conventional biomedicine. This educational policy fosters mutual understanding and enables doctors to employ integrative strategies in diagnosis and treatment. TCM is widely available in hospitals, community clinics, and is covered under the national health insurance system.

Integration in East Asia

Other East Asian countries have adopted similar approaches, each with distinctive features:

South Korea: Traditional Korean Medicine (TKM) coexists with conventional medicine under government regulation. Practitioners undergo specialized university education, and TKM services - including acupuncture, moxibustion, and herbal therapy - are covered by the national health insurance system (Park & Canaway, 2019).

Japan: Traditional Japanese medicine, known as Kampo, is integrated into mainstream practice. Kampo is taught in medical schools, and certain Kampo formulas are covered under the national health insurance scheme (Oshio & Tsutani, 2011). Although conventional medicine remains dominant, Kampo is widely accepted as a complementary practice.

Singapore: The government promotes integrative healthcare by supporting both modern and traditional medicine. Singapore positions itself as a model for sustainable healthcare by incorporating the best aspects of both systems while maintaining strict regulatory standards for practitioners (Tan, 2015).

Malaysia: Traditional and Complementary Medicine (T&CM) is formally recognized, with regulations under the Ministry of Health. While much of the service is provided by private institutions, public hospitals are increasingly offering T&CM services alongside conventional care (Mohd Zulkefli et al., 2017).

Integration in Europe

In Europe, integration varies significantly across countries:

Italy: Among European nations, Italy demonstrates one of the highest levels of integration. Universities offer academic degree programs in traditional medicine, and strict regulations ensure practitioner competence (Roberti di Sarsina et al., 2012).

Other European Nations: Countries such as Germany, Switzerland, and the UK have integrative health centers and growing acceptance of complementary and traditional medicine. For instance, Germany has a long tradition of herbal medicine (phytotherapy), while Switzerland reimburses certain complementary therapies through health insurance. Interest in TCM and other systems is steadily increasing across Europe and North America.

International Recognition and Standardization

The World Health Organization (WHO) has played a key role in legitimizing and promoting traditional medicine at a global level. A significant milestone came with the inclusion of a dedicated chapter on traditional medicine in the International Classification of Diseases (ICD-11), which facilitates data collection, regulation, and integration into health systems (WHO, 2019).

Furthermore, WHO is fostering international collaboration by extending its framework to encompass not only TCM but also Ayurveda (India) and Unani (Middle Eastern/Islamic tradition). These efforts seek to create global standards for education, safety, and efficacy while respecting cultural diversity.

Key Factors for Successful Integration

The degree to which traditional medicine is integrated into healthcare systems depends on several interrelated factors:

1. Government Policy and Regulation: Strong policy support ensures that traditional medicine is recognized, standardized, and safely practiced. China, Korea, and Japan exemplify successful models where government involvement has enabled nationwide integration.

2. Education and Training: Establishing standardized curricula at universities ensures that practitioners - both in traditional and conventional systems - possess a broad understanding of healthcare. Dual training fosters collaboration and reduces barriers between systems. 

 

Universities Offering Courses in Complementary and Traditional Medicine:

Numerous countries, particularly those in Asia, already have universities offering formal courses in traditional medicine

Other regions, such as parts of Africa, North America, and Australia, also provide formal education in various traditional and complementary medicine disciplines. The level of integration with conventional medicine and the specific types of traditional medicine offered vary by country. 

Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM)

China: As the origin of TCM, China has a highly developed educational system with dozens of universities specializing in the field, including some of the world's oldest. Notable universities include Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, and Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine.

 

Malaysia: Several universities offer TCM degrees, sometimes as part of a dual medical system that combines TCM with Western biomedical sciences. Examples include Lincoln University College, Xiamen University Malaysia, and the International Medical University (IMU).

Taiwan: Provides dual education systems that allow for both traditional Chinese medicine and Western medicine training, with courses available at institutions such as China Medical University.

Australia: Universities such as Western Sydney University offer Bachelor's and Master's degrees in Traditional Chinese Medicine.

United States: A significant number of colleges specialize in traditional Chinese medicine, with at least 84 institutions offering programs.

Canada: Several colleges, like the Vancouver Beijing College of Chinese Medicine, offer programs in Chinese herbal medicine and other TCM practices

United Kingdom: At least a dozen institutions offer programs in Chinese medicine. 

Traditional Indian Medicine (AYUSH)

India: The government supports the formal education of Ayurvedic, Siddha, Unani, and other Indian systems of medicine through the Ministry of AYUSH. Prominent institutions include the 

All India Institute of Ayurveda

in New Delhi and the Institute of Teaching and Research in Ayurveda (ITRA) in Jamnagar.

Malaysia: Formal training in Ayurveda and other complementary systems of medicine is available at institutions like Lincoln University College. So is the International Medical University (IMU) offering both conventional medicine and Chinese medicine degree courses 

Abroad (e.g., US, Canada, Australia): While specific university programs may be limited, there is a growing demand and career path for Ayurveda practitioners, often through specialized institutions or licensure after foreign study. In the United States for example the National University of Natural Medicine, a private university offers degree courses in naturopathic medicine, including Classical Chinese medicine, and nutrition and is located in Portland, Oregon. So is the famous Bastyr University  with campuses in Kenmore, Washington, and San Diego, California offering formal degree courses in naturopathic medicine,  acupuncture, Traditional Asian medicine, nutrition, herbal medicine, ayurvedic medicine, psychology, and midwifery.

Traditional Korean Medicine (TKM)

South Korea: Maintains a formal dual medical system, with specialized universities offering 6-year TKM programs that include extensive training in practices like acupuncture and herbal medicine. 

Traditional African Medicine

South Africa: Universities are involved in research and training related to indigenous herbal medicine. The SADC University of African Medicine is a prominent institution offering accredited qualifications in African medicine. Universities like the University of the Western Cape also offer programs related to complementary medicine, including Unani Tibb and Phytotherapy.

 

Zambia: Texila American University is listed as a medical school in Africa, some of which may have integrated or separate programs for traditional medicine. 

Other regions and approaches

Japan: While Kampo (herbal medicine) is partially covered by national health insurance, traditional medicine training for doctors is less formalized. Training for acupuncturists and other therapists is conducted in dedicated professional schools.

Germany: While specific universities are not listed, formal training in traditional and complementary medicine is available.

Italy: Terra Nova University offers a Ph.D. by Research in Natural Health Science via distance learning.

 

Latin America: Some countries have begun integrating traditional and alternative medicine. For example, Chile offers a 2-year diploma in homeopathy, and Colombia has specific ministerial resolutions governing traditional therapies

 

3. Insurance Coverage and Accessibility: When traditional medicine is included in health insurance schemes, patients are more likely to access and trust these services, leading to higher acceptance and utilization.

 A Final Thought: 

The integration of traditional and conventional medicine is no longer confined to cultural traditions but has become a global movement toward more holistic and sustainable healthcare. While China remains the leading model, many countries in East Asia, Europe, and Southeast Asia are progressively building integrative systems, each shaped by local culture and policy. With the WHO’s ongoing efforts to establish international frameworks, the future of healthcare is likely to become increasingly pluralistic, combining the strengths of biomedical science with the wisdom of traditional practices.

 

References

1. Mohd Zulkefli, N. A., et al. (2017). The practice of traditional and complementary medicine in Malaysia. Malaysian Journal of Public Health Medicine, 17(2), 93–101.

2. Oshio, T., & Tsutani, K. (2011). Current status of Kampo medicine in Japan. Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine, 2011, 513842.

3. Park, H. L., & Canaway, R. (2019). Integrating traditional and complementary medicine into national health systems: policy lessons from Korea. Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine, 25(5), 503–509.

4. Roberti di Sarsina, P., Alivia, M., & Guadagni, P. (2012). Traditional, complementary and alternative medical systems and their contribution to personalisation, prediction and prevention in medicine – person-centred medicine. EPMA Journal, 3(1), 15.

5. Tan, C. H. (2015). Integrating traditional medicine into Singapore’s healthcare system. Asian Bioethics Review, 7(3), 232–245.

A Reflection on Courtesy and Respect in Our Chat Group

A Reflection on Courtesy and Respect in Our Chat Group

Dear friends,

Recently, there were some misunderstandings and minor disagreements among members of our WhatsApp chat group, resulting in a few members leaving abruptly. I wish to share my personal thoughts on this matter, not to criticise, but to encourage mutual respect and understanding among us.

When I am invited to join any WhatsApp group, I always feel privileged and honoured. Not everyone is given such an opportunity to be part of a circle where ideas, experiences, and friendship are shared. It is much like being invited as a guest to a wedding, a seat of honour offered out of kindness, and we accept it with grace and gratitude.

In a wedding, guests do not come empty-handed; they bring gifts as a token of appreciation. Similarly, in a chat group, our “gifts” are our stories, thoughts, and contributions that enrich the group. Therefore, when we choose to leave, it is only courteous to thank the host, in this case, the group administrator, and bid farewell respectfully.

Personally, if I ever need to leave a group for personal reasons, I would always express my gratitude first and seek permission politely. I would never depart abruptly without a word, for doing so reflects discourtesy, not only toward the host but also toward every member present.

Leaving suddenly without a word of apology or explanation may give an unfortunate impression of one’s upbringing and social etiquette. It can even invite others to feel “good riddance” toward us, which benefits no one.

Politeness costs nothing, yet it speaks volumes about one’s character and values and social upbringing. A simple word of thanks or apology goes a long way in preserving harmony and mutual respect.

In short, let us always remember that just as we seek permission to enter a gathering, it is equally proper to seek permission or express thanks before leaving.

Remember, just as we have been invited to join a WhatsApp chat group we should feel very honoured to be given a place to share our thoughts with other invited guests in the group just like we have been given a seat in a wedding. We are all wedding guests to our gracious host who have selected and invited us, and it is very rude and impolite to walk out suddenly without even thanking our wedding host - our WhatApp administrator. It reflects our rudeness and absence of social etiquette, not just to the host but also to all the invited "wedding guests"  We just back fire on ourselves as self good riddance to other invited guests   

That is my humble reflection.

Warm regards,

Lim Ju Boo

Physiotherapy as an Adjunct to Medical Treatment

I would like to dedicate this article of mine to Ms Sofea, a physiotherapist working at the Kuala Lumpur Hospital and also to her colleagues who knows more on physiotherapy than I do. 

The Role of Physiotherapy in Medicine

Summary

 

Physiotherapy is a vital adjunct to medical treatment, especially for chronic diseases and common injuries. Medication often provides immediate relief from pain and inflammation, allowing patients to begin physiotherapy exercises that would otherwise be too painful. Physiotherapy, however, addresses the underlying issues, muscle weakness, poor posture, limited mobility, providing long-term recovery and reducing reliance on medication.

Let me give some examples here: 

1. Osteoarthritis: NSAIDs relieve joint pain; physiotherapy strengthens supporting muscles for stability and function.

2. COPD: Bronchodilators improve breathing; pulmonary rehabilitation enhances exercise capacity and quality of life.

3. Chronic back pain: Medication helps during flare-ups; physiotherapy corrects posture and muscle imbalances.

4. Venous stasis ulcers & lymphedema: Targeted exercises, compression, and manual drainage support healing and circulation.

 

While physiotherapy is not a universal cure and often needs medication for initial pain control, it is crucial in achieving long-term independence.ol) Patients who commit to physiotherapy gain strength, flexibility, and functional resilience, often reducing their reliance on long-term drugs and their side effects. The most effective approach is multidisciplinary, combining medication for symptom control with physiotherapy for root-cause treatment.

 Let me explain further that physiotherapy is an adjunct to medical treatment - a path to long-term healing.

Physiotherapy has become one of the cornerstones of modern healthcare, offering benefits that extend far beyond simple pain relief. While some still view it as a set of exercises or massages for sports injuries, physiotherapy today is a scientifically grounded, multidisciplinary approach that restores function, builds resilience, and supports long-term independence. When used alongside medication, physiotherapy can provide both immediate relief and lasting recovery, an approach that is often more effective than either treatment alone.

A common misconception is that physiotherapy merely treats acute injuries or that it serves as a substitute for medication. In truth, medication and physiotherapy play different but complementary roles. Medication is vital in controlling acute symptoms such as pain and inflammation. For example, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can quickly reduce swelling and discomfort in patients with osteoarthritis. This immediate relief enables patients to begin physiotherapy exercises that might otherwise have been too painful to perform (Zeng et al., 2015). Yet medication by itself only masks symptoms: when its effects wear off, the underlying dysfunction remains. Physiotherapy, on the other hand, focuses on the root of the problem, weak muscles, restricted joints, poor posture, or inefficient movement patterns, helping patients to restore and maintain function (Taylor et al., 2010).

The strength of physiotherapy lies in its long-term vision. By addressing the physical causes of dysfunction, patients often gain independence, reducing their reliance on drugs that can carry risks of side effects, especially with prolonged use. Chronic pain patients, for instance, who rely on opioids may face risks of dependence, yet those who integrate physiotherapy into their care plans learn strategies to manage pain naturally while improving mobility (Ballantyne & Sullivan, 2015). In this way, physiotherapy transforms temporary relief into sustainable recovery.

Chronic conditions provide some of the clearest evidence of the power of this integrated approach. In osteoarthritis, medication can relieve joint pain, but physiotherapy strengthens the muscles around the affected joints, improving stability and slowing disease progression (Fransen et al., 2015). For patients with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), bronchodilators open the airways, but physiotherapists introduce pulmonary rehabilitation, teaching breathing techniques and safe physical activity that enhance endurance and quality of life (Spruit et al., 2013). Chronic back pain is another example: medication may help during painful flare-ups, but physiotherapy identifies postural problems and muscle imbalances, correcting them through targeted exercise so that recurrences are less likely (Qaseem et al., 2017).

Nevertheless, physiotherapy has its limitations. Patients suffering from severe pain or extreme immobility often cannot begin therapy without some form of initial medical intervention. It is also not a universal cure, neuropathic pain, systemic illnesses, or progressive neurological conditions often require additional treatments beyond physiotherapy. Furthermore, unlike medication, which acts quickly, physiotherapy requires patience and commitment from the patient; progress is gradual and built over time.

Emerging trends are helping to expand physiotherapy’s reach and effectiveness. Tele-rehabilitation now enables patients to receive guided therapy remotely, while robotics and exoskeletons support recovery after strokes and spinal cord injuries. Wearable technologies are also being used to design personalized rehabilitation programs, while collaborative care models are ensuring that physiotherapists, physicians, and other health professionals work together for holistic patient care.

Physiotherapy’s role also extends into conditions that are less commonly associated with physical therapy. For venous stasis ulcers, ankle-pumping exercises and walking, in combination with compression therapy, improve venous return and help healing (O’Meara et al., 2012). For patients with lymphedema, physiotherapists use manual lymph drainage, bandaging, and gentle therapeutic exercises to improve lymph flow and reduce swelling (Ezzo et al., 2015). 

 

The Role of Infrared Light Therapy in Physiotherapy:

 Infrared (IR) light therapy appears to be an effective adjunct treatment for chronic venous stasis ulcers with studies showing it can accelerate healing, reduce pain, and improve the appearance of granulation tissue. Its mechanisms include increasing blood flow, stimulating mitochondrial activity, and ATP production, which provides cells with the energy to repair damaged tissue, and promoting cell proliferation and tissue regeneration. IR therapy is considered a form of bio-stimulation and is integrated into physiotherapy as an adjunct treatment to enhance conventional therapies like compression therapy.

Mechanisms of Action: 

Increased Blood Flow - 

Infrared radiation can cause microvascular dilatation, leading to augmented blood flow and improved circulation to the wound area. 

 

Cellular Energy  -  

 

IR light stimulates mitochondria, the powerhouses of the cell, leading to an increase in ATP production. This provides more cellular energy for tissue repair and regeneration. 

 

Cell Proliferation - 

 

The increased energy available to cells promotes cell proliferation and the formation of new tissue. 

 

Reduced Pain -  

 

Studies have shown a significant reduction in pain associated with the ulcer, which improves the patient's quality of life. 

 

Improved Granulation -  

 

There is an increase in the area of healthy granulation tissue on the ulcer floor. 

 

Integration with Physiotherapy: 

 

Infrared therapy is not a standalone treatment but is used as an adjunct or complementary treatment alongside other therapies. It enhances the effectiveness of physiotherapy for venous ulcers in several ways: 

 

Enhances Compression Therapy: 

 

Physiotherapists often use compression therapy as a primary treatment for venous ulcers. IR therapy can be used in conjunction with compression to improve outcomes. 

 

Provides Pain Relief: 

 

By reducing pain, IR therapy makes it easier for patients to participate in therapeutic exercises and other physical therapy interventions. 

 

Promotes Healing: 

 

The bio-stimulatory effects of IR light promote a more favorable healing environment, supporting the overall goals of physiotherapy in managing chronic wounds. 

 

Even in neurological rehabilitation, specialized programs such as constraint-induced movement therapy encourage neuroplasticity, giving patients opportunities to regain lost functions.

Physiotherapy also use water (hydrotherapy) as part of its therapeutic modality similar to those used in naturopathic medicine, and I have casually mentioned this  here: 

https://scientificlogic.blogspot.com/search?q=Naturopathic+medicine

 

In summary, infrared therapy is an effective bio-stimulatory treatment for venous ulcers that can be effectively integrated into a comprehensive physiotherapy plan to accelerate healing and alleviate pain. 

 

The ultimate value of physiotherapy lies not only in symptom relief but in promoting long-term independence. As patients gain strength, flexibility, and confidence in managing their own bodies, their reliance on medication often diminishes. This shift empowers patients to live more fully, with fewer restrictions imposed by disease or disability.

 

In conclusion, while physiotherapy is rarely a complete solution on its own, its integration with medication provides a balanced and highly effective approach to managing both acute and chronic conditions. Medication brings immediate relief; physiotherapy builds lasting recovery. Together, they form a multidisciplinary strategy that addresses both symptoms and causes, restoring not only movement but dignity and independence.

 

References

1. Ballantyne, J. C., & Sullivan, M. D. (2015). Intensity of chronic pain — the wrong metric? New England Journal of Medicine, 373(22), 2098–2099.

2. Ezzo, J., Manheimer, E., McNeely, M. L., Howell, D. M., Weiss, R., Johansson, K. I., & Bily, L. (2015). Manual lymph drainage for lymphedema following breast cancer treatment. Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, (5).

3. Fransen, M., McConnell, S., Harmer, A. R., Van der Esch, M., Simic, M., & Bennell, K. L. (2015). Exercise for osteoarthritis of the knee: a Cochrane systematic review. British Journal of Sports Medicine, 49(24), 1554–1557.

4. O’Meara, S., Cullum, N., Nelson, E. A., & Dumville, J. C. (2012). Compression for venous leg ulcers. Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, (11).

5. Qaseem, A., Wilt, T. J., McLean, R. M., Forciea, M. A., & Clinical Guidelines Committee of the American College of Physicians. (2017). Noninvasive treatments for acute, subacute, and chronic low back pain: A clinical practice guideline. Annals of Internal Medicine, 166(7), 514–530.

6. Spruit, M. A., Singh, S. J., Garvey, C., ZuWallack, R., Nici, L., Rochester, C., ... & Wouters, E. F. (2013). An official American Thoracic Society/European Respiratory Society statement: key concepts and advances in pulmonary rehabilitation. American Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, 188(8), e13–e64.

7. Taylor, N. F., Dodd, K. J., Shields, N., & Bruder, A. (2010). Therapeutic exercise in physiotherapy practice is beneficial: a summary of systematic reviews 2002–2005. Australian Journal of Physiotherapy, 56(1), 7–16.

8. Zeng, C., Wei, J., Persson, M. S., Sarmanova, A., Doherty, M., Xie, D., & Zhang, W. (2015). Relative efficacy and safety of topical non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs for osteoarthritis: a systematic review and network meta-analysis of randomised controlled trials and observational studies. British Journal of Sports Medicine, 52(10), 642–650.