As chronic pain and long-term conditions become more prevalent in Singapore, there is growing recognition that relying on a single medical approach may not always meet the complex needs of patients. Increasingly, integrative pain management—combining Western medicine with Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM)—is being explored as a complementary, patient-centred model of care.
This approach was recently highlighted in Lianhe Zaobao (联合早报), where practitioners shared how thoughtful integration of Western medicine and TCM can support better continuity of care, comfort, and long-term outcomes for patients.
The TCM Perspective in Integrated Pain Care
From the TCM perspective, Physician Sue Wan shared that while Western medical treatments play a critical role in diagnosis, acute management, and interventional care, TCM can offer meaningful support throughout the treatment journey.
According to Physician Sue, TCM is particularly valuable in:
- Easing treatment-related discomfort
- Supporting recovery between medical interventions
- Providing transitional care for patients managing chronic or recurrent pain
Rather than serving as an alternative, TCM is positioned as a complementary modality—working alongside Western medicine to help patients regain balance, resilience, and functional stability.
Supporting Chronic Pain Through Balance and Function
Physician Sue noted that in chronic pain conditions—such as recurrent musculoskeletal pain or complex pain syndromes—symptoms are not always driven by structural issues alone. From a TCM viewpoint, pain may also be associated with underlying functional imbalance, which can manifest as persistent discomfort, fatigue, or slower recovery.
By focusing on restoring balance and supporting the body’s natural recovery processes, TCM may help some patients experience:
- More stable symptom control
- Improved tolerance of ongoing treatments
- Greater overall comfort during long-term care
This supportive role allows patients to continue necessary medical treatments while improving their day-to-day well-being.
Integrating TCM Within a Medically Guided Framework
At Singapore Paincare Medical Group, integrative care is guided by medical oversight and clinical appropriateness. Dr Bernard Lee Mun Kam, Senior Consultant Pain Specialist, shared in the article that when integration is applied judiciously, it can contribute to more efficient treatment journeys and reduced reliance on prolonged medication in selected patients.
Within this framework, TCM serves as part of a coordinated care pathway—enhancing continuity and patient experience without compromising safety or clinical rigour.
A Patient-Centred Ecosystem of Care
Integrative pain management at Singapore Paincare is grounded in the principles of complementarity, continuity, and patient-centred outcomes. By aligning Western medical treatments with supportive TCM care, the goal is to help patients:
- Navigate treatment transitions more comfortably
- Maintain mobility and daily function
- Improve long-term quality of life
This collaborative model reflects an evolving healthcare landscape—one that recognises the value of multiple disciplines working together to support patients living with chronic pain.
This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Treatment suitability varies by individual. Please consult a qualified medical professional for personalised care recommendations.
Source: Adapted from insights shared in Lianhe Zaobao (联合早报)
