During the quadrennial Olympic Games, global attention to sports and health reaches unprecedented heights. Amid this wave of enthusiasm, the role of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) in sports medicine is gaining recognition. Through therapies such as acupuncture, laser acupuncture, cupping, and orthopedic techniques, TCM has demonstrated its effectiveness in international competitions like the Olympics, Asian Games, and Universiade
TCM practitioner Dr. Chiu Po-Hao pointed out that many people mistakenly believe that TCM is slow in its effects. However, when athletes suffer injuries during competitions, especially in the acute phase, where muscles, fascia, bones, or ligaments are damaged due to trauma, TCM treatments can act quickly to alleviate pain and accelerate recovery. Additionally, TCM offers a diverse range of methods for treating sports injuries, including orthopedic techniques, acupuncture, laser acupuncture, cupping, and tui na (Chinese therapeutic massage). These treatments can immediately reduce inflammation, relieve swelling and pain, shorten athletes' recovery time, and help them return to the field as soon as possible. For female athletes, TCM can also effectively control menstrual pain and improve premenstrual syndrome (PMS), thereby enhancing their performance stability during competitions.
Sports Injuries Are Inevitable During Exercise. (Photo / Courtesy of Heho Health)
In recent years, painless laser acupuncture has become a popular therapy in sports medicine. This technique does not cause pain or the tingling sensation often associated with traditional acupuncture, making it particularly suitable for children who fear needles or those prone to fainting or pain sensitivity. Many well-known athletes, such as Yang Yung-Wei and Lee Chih-Kai, have used laser acupuncture during training or competitions to relieve muscle tension and pain. Research has shown that laser acupuncture can effectively reduce muscle inflammation and enhance athletic performance, making it a vital new technological tool for modern TCM practitioners.
Traditional Chinese Medicine Offers Various Methods for Treating Sports Injuries. (Photo / Courtesy of Heho Health)
In conclusion, the application of TCM in sports medicine continues to expand, changing people's perceptions of TCM with its effectiveness and convenience. It also provides athletes with more diverse treatment options. As TCM increasingly integrates with sports medicine, it will continue to demonstrate its unique advantages on the sports field, helping athletes achieve better results.
