When to Choose TCM

• Chronic low back pain without red flags

• Functional/muscular back pain

• Postural back pain

• Stress-related back pain

• As complementary care during Western treatment

• When systemic pattern is suspected

When to Choose Western Medicine

• Acute trauma with severe pain

• Red flags (see red-flags page)

• Suspected fracture, tumor, infection

• Severe neurological symptoms

• When surgical evaluation is needed

Treatment Costs

• TCM consultation fees vary by clinic

• Initial consultation typically higher than follow-ups

• Acupuncture and herbal medicine priced separately

• Western diagnostic tests (X-ray, MRI) priced separately

Insurance Coverage

• Many Hong Kong health insurance plans cover TCM

• Coverage varies: some cover acupuncture, some cover Chinese bone setting

• Western diagnostic tests covered by most plans

• Check with your insurance provider for specific coverage

Elderly Health Care Vouchers

• Available for seniors aged 65 and above

• Can be used at registered TCM clinics

• Lok Hop Tong Acupuncture Clinic accepts vouchers

• Cannot be used for products or non-medical services

TCM Initial Consultation

• Detailed history (30-60 minutes)

• Tongue and pulse diagnosis

• TCM pattern differentiation

• Treatment plan discussion

• Initial herbal prescription and/or acupuncture

TCM Follow-up

• Shorter consultations (15-30 minutes)

• Tongue and pulse re-assessment

• Treatment adjustment

• Continued herbal prescriptions

Western Orthopedic Consultation

• History and physical exam

• Imaging if indicated (X-ray, MRI)

• Diagnosis and treatment plan

• Medications, PT, injections, or surgical referral

Finding a Registered TCM Practitioner

• Search the CMCHK registered TCM practitioner list (www.cmchk.org.hk)

• Verify registration number and status

• Check specialty and clinic location

What to Bring to First Consultation

• List of current medications and supplements

• Relevant medical reports (if any)

• Imaging (X-ray, MRI) if available

• List of allergies

• Questions you want to ask

Questions to Ask Your Practitioner

• What is your TCM pattern diagnosis?

• What treatment do you recommend?

• How long until I see improvement?

• What are the costs and treatment frequency?

• Are there any side effects or interactions?

Q1: How do I know if TCM is right for my back pain?

TCM is appropriate for chronic low back pain without red flags, especially when there is a suspected systemic pattern. For acute conditions, severe symptoms, or red flags, Western medical evaluation is the priority. Many patients use both. Consult a registered TCM practitioner for individual assessment.

Q2: How much does TCM treatment cost in Hong Kong?

TCM treatment costs vary by clinic. Initial TCM consultations typically range HK$300-800; follow-ups are usually HK$150-400. Acupuncture and herbal prescriptions are priced separately. Insurance may cover part of the cost. Elderly Health Care Vouchers can be used at registered TCM clinics.

Q3: Does health insurance cover TCM?

Many Hong Kong health insurance plans cover TCM treatments including acupuncture and Chinese bone setting. Check with your insurance provider for your plan’s specific coverage.

Q4: Can I use Elderly Health Care Vouchers for TCM?

Yes. The Elderly Health Care Voucher Scheme can be used at registered TCM clinics for eligible seniors aged 65+. Lok Hop Tong Acupuncture Clinic accepts vouchers.

Q5: How many TCM sessions do I need?

The number of sessions varies. Acute: 1-3 sessions. Chronic: 6-12 sessions for a typical course, with periodic maintenance.

Q6: Is TCM evidence-based?

TCM has a growing evidence base. Acupuncture has been endorsed by WHO and major medical organizations for certain conditions. Some TCM practices have scientific validation. Patients should look for registered practitioners and evidence-informed care.

Q7: Can TCM and Western medicine be used together?

Yes. Many patients use TCM and Western medicine together. Coordination between practitioners is important. Always inform both practitioners of all treatments.

Q8: How do I find a good TCM practitioner?

Find a registered TCM practitioner (CMCHK-registered): ① Search www.cmchk.org.hk ② Verify registration number ③ Check clinic location ④ Read clinic information. Look for practitioners experienced in your specific condition.

Q9: What if TCM doesn’t work?

If TCM treatment does not provide relief after a reasonable course, discuss with your practitioner. You may need: ① Reassessment ② Western diagnostic evaluation ③ Combined approach ④ Different TCM modality.

Q10: Where to start TCM treatment in Central HK?

Dr. Peng Zengfu at Lok Hop Tong Acupuncture Clinic (CMCHK #007063) provides TCM consultation for low back pain. Book via WhatsApp +852 6434 7037.