Q: Dear Dr. Mao,
I have hip and leg pain and numbness on my right side, which still persists despite physical therapy and cortisone shots. Can you recommend exercises to relieve this pain?
A: I suggest you get a diagnosis to make sure that there are no serious injuries to the hip joint such as socket problems or cartilage deteriorations. There are some good exercises to help strengthen and stretch the local muscles and joints. Tai chi and qigong exercises can be practiced 30 minutes per day; these exercises are not strenuous but provide a good support for the joints and tendons of the knees, hip, and back joints.
I specifically recommend the “Dao In”, qigong, and the Taoist “EightTreasures” practices. Instructional videos of these can be found on www.acupuncture.com.
You may find these specially formulated Traditions of Tao products helpful for hip pain: “DuraBone”, “Arthritis/Joint”, and “Enduring Youth”. Of course, discuss with your physician before beginning any new health regime.
I also recommend you contact a local licensed practitioner. Acupuncture has been shown effective in treating pain and can help with joint problems.
