Question
Dear Brian

I have a chronic injury to the vertabrae in my neck and this is causing a lot of referred pain in my left shoulder.  I have seen a specialist and am currently seeing a physiotherapist.  The specialist prescribed very low dose anti-depressants to 'turn down the pain.' I am very reluctant to take these (they are called Allegron).  Can you suggest an alternative?

I am based in the UK

Kind Regards
Luan Morgan (Mrs)

Answer
Yes, there are herbal formulas for pain in Chinese medicine - they are customized not only for each patient's constitution (to avoid side effects), but also can be directed to specific areas of the body, like the neck in your case.  However, acupuncture is even better for pain- regardless of the cause, it can change new or chronic pain.  For both, you'll need to see an acupuncturist/herbalist one on one.  Look here for a local one and tips on how to get the best one for you: http://www.pulsemed.org/findacupuncturist.htm