Perspectives on Integrative Medicine

Case Report

Korean Medicine with Polydeoxyribonucleotide Pharmacopuncture and Excimer Light Therapy for Foot Dyshidrotic Eczema: Two Case Reports: Byoungchul Lee, Jaekyoung Lee; Perspect Integr Med. 2026;5(2):140-146. Published online June 19, 2026; DOI: https://doi.org/10.56986/pim.2026.06.007

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Dyshidrotic eczema (DE) is a chronic, recurrent eczematous skin condition that is often difficult to manage. Integrated treatment combining conventional treatment and Korean medicine (KM) may be an effective therapeutic alternative management. Two cases of foot DE in patients who received integrated medicine treatment were retrospectively analyzed. The treatment protocol consisted of herbal medicine (Hwangryeonhaedok-tang), Saam acupuncture-based treatment using LU5, LU8, LI11, and LI5, moxibustion, polydeoxyribonucleotide (PDRN) pharmacopuncture, and excimer light therapy (308 nm). Clinical outcomes were assessed using the Peak Pruritus Numerical Rating Scale, and by visual evaluation of vesicle counts, crusts, and scales. Both patients showed initial symptom resolution during treatment, followed by recurrence, and sustained symptom resolution was confirmed at the final follow-up (after recurrence management). Peak Pruritus Numerical Rating Scale scores improved from 6 to 0 in Case 1, and from 7 to 0 in Case 2. Vesicle counts decreased from 2 to 0 in Case 1, and from 6 to 0 in Case 2. The initial remission was first observed at Visit 10 (Day 28) in Case 1, and Visit 8 (Day 68) in Case 2, while sustained symptom resolution was confirmed at the final follow-up on Day 114 and Day 147, respectively. Integrated conventional and KM treatment, incorporating PDRN pharmacopuncture and excimer light therapy (308 nm), may have potential as a steroid-sparing therapeutic option for managing chronic recurrent DE.

Citations

Citations to this article as recorded by

Polydeoxyribonucleotide attenuates dexamethasone-induced skeletal muscle atrophy by suppressing oxidative stress and regulating muscle protein turnover
Jin Young Hong, Hyunseong Kim, Changhwan Yeo, Junseon Lee, Wan-Jin Jeon, Hyun Kim, In-Hyuk Ha, Seung Ho Baek, Yoon Jae Lee
Journal of Muscle Research and Cell Motility.2026;[Epub] CrossRef

Original Article

Clinical Practice Guideline for Deforming Dorsopathies (Scoliosis) in Korean Medicine: Based on the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation Framework: Ga-Young Kim, Gyoungeun Park, Jeong-Hyun Moon, Seong-Kyeong Choi, Seo-Hyun Park, Won-Suk Sung, Eun-Jung Kim; Perspect Integr Med. 2026;5(2):130-139. Published online June 19, 2026; DOI: https://doi.org/10.56986/pim.2026.06.006

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Graphical Abstract Abstract PDF Supplementary Material: Background
Scoliosis is a spinal deformity, characterized by visible asymmetry, which can lead to functional impairment and psychological distress. Medical interventions in Korea are commonly used in clinical settings to manage scoliosis. This study aimed to develop a Korean medicine clinical practice guideline (CPG) for scoliosis treatment.
Methods
Existing literature and previously established guidelines were reviewed. In addition, a web-based survey among Korean medicine doctors, which investigated perceptions and clinical practices regarding scoliosis, raised key clinical questions and priorities. A systematic literature review was performed, and the quality of evidence was assessed using the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation framework. Draft recommendations were formulated based on these findings which were refined through expert consensus using the Delphi method. The final recommendations were agreed by the development and review committees.
Results
Sixteen recommendations, each accompanied by a corresponding level of evidence and strength of recommendation, were developed for 6 Korean medicine interventions to form a CPG for the treatment of mild to moderate scoliosis.
Conclusion
CPGs are essential for actionable, evidence-based medical decision making which minimize variation and optimize treatment outcomes. Continuous research and regular revisions are essential to ensure the clinical relevance and applicability of CPG.

Review Article

Use of Korean Medicine Among Disaster Survivors in South Korea: A Systematic Review of Clinical Studies: Ji-Won Oh, Ji-Won Kim, Chan-Young Kwon; Perspect Integr Med. 2026;5(2):85-96. Published online June 19, 2026; DOI: https://doi.org/10.56986/pim.2026.06.002

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Graphical Abstract Abstract PDF Supplementary Material: Background
Disasters inflict physical, psychological, and social burdens on survivors. While Korean medicine (KM) has shown potential in crisis response, it is not integrated into South Korea's national disaster medical system. This study, the first in Korea, systematically reviewed the clinical evidence for KM interventions for disaster survivors.
Methods
Bibliographic databases were used (MEDLINE, EMBASE, and RISS) to search for South Korean clinical studies, of any design, evaluating KM interventions (e.g., acupuncture, herbal medicine) delivered by licensed KM doctors. Methodological quality was assessed using the modified Newcastle-Ottawa Scale and the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute Quality Assessment Tool. Due to high heterogeneity, findings were synthesized narratively.
Results
Seven studies (4 cohorts, 1 case series, 2 case reports) covered disasters like the COVID-19 pandemic, the Sewol Ferry disaster, and the Pohang earthquake. The methodological quality of the cohort studies was generally low (lacking control groups), while case studies were stronger. Studies reported improvements in psychological outcomes (e.g., PTSD, depression) and physical symptoms (e.g., pain, COVID-19 symptoms). KM telemedicine emerged as an accessible and efficient delivery model. No serious adverse events were noted.
Conclusion
This review suggests KM may be a beneficial and safe option for managing survivors' physical and psychological symptoms using integrative medicine. However, the evidence is preliminary and limited by the small number, methodological weaknesses, and high heterogeneity of studies. These findings provide foundational evidence to support integrating KM into conventional medicine in the national disaster response system, but further rigorous research is needed to confirm these findings.

Original Article

Effectiveness and Safety of Integrative Korean Medicine Treatment for Cervical Disc Herniation with Radiculopathy: One-year Follow-up Results of a Prospective Observational Study: Su Won Lee, Yong-jun Ahn, Suna Kim, Yeonsun Lee, Hyun-Woo Cho, Yoon Jae Lee, In-Hyuk Ha; Perspect Integr Med. 2026;5(1):17-27. Published online February 11, 2026; DOI: https://doi.org/10.56986/pim.2026.02.004

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Graphical Abstract Abstract PDF Supplementary Material: Background
Cervical disc herniation (CDH) often accompanies radiculopathy causing pain in the neck and upper extremities that interferes with daily life. The prevalence of CDH is increasing. The treatment methods recommended are primarily conservative.
Methods
In this prospective, single-arm, multicenter, observational study there were 120 patients diagnosed in the past 12 months with CDH (disc protrusion or more severe conditions) accompanied by radiculopathy. Patients received integrative Korean medicine treatment (acupuncture, electroacupuncture, pharmacopuncture, herbal medicine, cupping therapy, and Chuna therapy), approximately twice a week for 2 months, and outcomes were measured. The numeric rating scale, and visual analog scale were used for assessing neck and arm pain, and the neck disability index, patient global impression of change, EuroQol-5-dimension, work productivity and activity impairment questionnaire, and range of motion assessed how pain affected daily activities.
Results
Out of 120 patients, 115 completed 2-months treatment, and 114 responded at the 1-year follow-up. The numeric rating scale score for neck or arm pain showed a reduction of 3.96 points (95% CI, 3.63, 4.29) from baseline to 8 weeks, which further improved (95% CI, 4.09, 4.75) at 1 year. Similarly, the visual analog scale score for neck and arm pain, quality of life measures, and function-related measures also showed improvement from baseline, maintaining these gains at 1 year.
Conclusion
This observational study suggested that using Korean medicine treatment, a conservative treatment method, as the intervention, may provide long-term benefits in reducing pain and improving function and quality of life for patients with CDH accompanied by radiculopathy.

Protocol

Study Protocol for a Randomized Pragmatic Clinical Trial Evaluating Pharmacopuncture Versus Acupuncture for Chronic Neck Pain: Ju Yeon Kim, Suna Kim, Yeonsun Lee, Hyun-Woo Cho, Yejin Hong, Dongwoo Nam, Yeoncheol Park, Eun-Jung Kim, Sook-Hyun Lee, Yoon Jae Lee, In-Hyuk Ha; Perspect Integr Med. 2025;4(3):181-189. Published online October 22, 2025; DOI: https://doi.org/10.56986/pim.2025.10.007

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Graphical Abstract Abstract PDF Supplementary Material: Background
Neck pain is a common musculoskeletal disorder, which is becoming increasingly common with the rise in computer and smartphone use. For many, this condition leads to chronic discomfort, and disability in daily life. Although pharmacopuncture represents a major treatment modality for neck pain in Korean medicine, its effectiveness and safety as compared with standard acupuncture has not been thoroughly investigated.
Methods
A study protocol for a multicenter, pragmatic, randomized clinical trial was designed with a parallel-group approach. A total of 128 participants, each experiencing chronic neck pain for at least 3 months, will be recruited. Participants will be randomly assigned to either the pharmacopuncture or acupuncture group and receive treatment twice weekly for 4 weeks. The primary outcome will be the change in score for neck pain, as assessed using the numeric rating scale, 5 weeks after baseline. Secondary outcomes will include evaluations using the visual analog scale, Northwick Park Questionnaire, Neck Disability Index, Patient Global Impression of Change, Health-Related Quality of Life Instrument with eight items, and the EuroQol-5 Dimension. In addition, a cost-effectiveness analysis will be conducted and reported separately.
Discussion
The rigorous study design is intended to ultimately provide practical evidence for clinicians and policymakers regarding the use of pharmacopuncture treatment for chronic neck pain. By directly comparing its effectiveness with standard acupuncture, the results of the trial outcomes will offer insights that may inform future healthcare decisions. Trial registration: This protocol has been registered at ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT06520462) on July 25, 2024.

Case Report

Korean Medicine Treatment for Facial Palsy During Pregnancy: Case Report: Min-Jeong Kwon, Su-na Park, Ga Yeong Yi, Jae-kyoung Lee, Jae-Joong Jung, Su-Ji Choi, YeonSun Lee; Perspect Integr Med. 2025;4(3):164-170. Published online October 22, 2025; DOI: https://doi.org/10.56986/pim.2025.10.005

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Graphical Abstract Abstract PDF Supplementary Material: Facial palsy during pregnancy often has a poor prognosis. Korean medicine treatment for facial palsy is considered safe and effective in pregnant women. Two cases of pregnant women with facial palsy who visited Bucheon Jaseng Korean Medicine Hospital and received Korean medicine treatment were retrospective analyzed. The treatment was applied to the affected side of the face using the points that are most widely used for facial palsy. The recovery outcomes were graded using the gross grading system Yanagihara scale, House-Brackmann scale, and the numeric rating scale. Both cases showed improvement in facial palsy symptoms. The House-Brackmann scale grade in Case 1 improved from Grade 4 to 2 (mild dysfunction), and in Case 2 from Grade 5 to 2 (mild dysfunction), and the numeric rating scale score in Case 1 improved from 6 to 0 points (no pain) and in Case 2 from 4 to 2 (mild pain). The Yanagihara scale total score also showed improvement increasing from 14 to 40 points (normal function) in Case 1 and 9 to 34 (mild dysfunction) in Case 2. Completion of treatment in Case 1 was on 46 days since onset and in Case 2 it was on 38 days since onset. Korean medicine treatment including acupuncture, pharmacopuncture, moxibustion, cupping, and Chuna (applied early) can be used as an alternative treatment to steroids in facial palsy during pregnancy.

Original Articles

Contributing Factors in the Decision to Study Korean Medicine and Satisfaction with the College Experience: A Quantitative Nationwide Study: HyunSeok Kim, Hyunho Kim, Joohyun Lee, Hwimun Kim; Perspect Integr Med. 2023;2(3):173-181. Published online October 23, 2023; DOI: https://doi.org/10.56986/pim.2023.10.005

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Graphical Abstract Abstract PDF Supplementary Material: Background
The practice of Korean medicine (KM) taught at KM colleges has equal legal rights and responsibilities as Western medicine in South Korea. To date, no research has been conducted on the factors which influence college students in their choice to study KM and satisfaction with the course.
Methods
Content validity and face validity tests were conducted while developing the questionnaires. Research was conducted amongst all KM colleges in South Korea and of the 744 premedical KM 2^nd year students, 420 participated. Analysis was performed on how much the mean values changed between the items and sub-items. Factors were also correlated with the students’ satisfaction and willingness to reenter KM colleges.
Results
The means of stable incumbency items were the highest of all the items, while items concerning experience of chronic disease had the lowest mean values. For enrollment, the latent value that most questionnaire items were changed positively by was interest in KM. Items related to students’ choice or KM doctor status were closely tied to students’ current satisfaction with their choice to enroll at a KM college, rather than their college entrance examination scores.
Conclusion
Identifying which factors are considered before entering KM college and during the course can help students to be more satisfied with their academic progress. To satisfy the KM students, educators should focus on providing both qualified clinical training and guidance to enter diverse career fields. This study highlights factors that can be applied to college curriculum or subject teaching.

Current Status of Korean Medicine Treatment for Post-acute COVID-19 Syndrome: A Survey of Korean Medicine Doctors: Doori Kim, Seo-Hyun Park, Won-Suk Sung, Eun-Jung Kim; Perspect Integr Med. 2022;1(1):34-44. Published online September 22, 2022; DOI: https://doi.org/10.56986/pim.2022.09.006

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Abstract PDF Supplementary Material: Background
The applicability of Korean medicine (KM) treatments for post-acute COVID-19 syndrome were investigated.
Methods
A cross-sectional, web-based survey of Korean medical doctors (KMDs) was conducted in June 2022. The 25-item questionnaire comprised of five parts: basic characteristics, prescribed post-COVID-19 KM treatments, treatment effect in patients with post-acute COVID-19 syndrome, patient satisfaction, and awareness and utilization of the relevant KM Clinical Practice Guideline by the KMDs.
Results
In total, 1,063 completed questionnaires were collected, and 822 were analyzed. The most common symptoms in patients with post-acute COVID-19 syndrome treated by KMDs was weakness and fatigue (84.3%). Herbal decoctions (39.2%) and herbal powder (not covered by medical insurance; 25.8%) were primarily used. Among the KMDs, 95% (n = 781) responded that KM treatments, particularly herbal decoctions (82.6%) and herbal powder (not covered by medical insurance; 46.8%), were effective. Overall, 92.6% (n = 761) of KMD participants answered that the patients were satisfied with KM treatments, mostly due to symptomatic improvement (60.8%). The primary reason for dissatisfaction was the burden of cost for patients (78.4%). The main reasons for low uptake of KM services by patients with post-acute COVID-19 syndrome were lack of publicity and administrative issues such as no health insurance coverage.
Conclusion
KM is highly applicable for post-acute COVID-19 syndrome. Health policies supporting the use of KM for post-acute COVID-19 syndrome are recommended.

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