In this study, the effects of traditional drugs such as Zachun-13 and Sampilnorov on serum levels of tumor necrosis factor (TNF) in mice model of arthritis induced by formalin were examined. Moreover, the effect of traditional external therapies including acupuncture, cauterization, pricking-cupping and massage on serum TNF levels in patients with spinal disk herniation and long-term back muscle injury. The study was done at the Research Center of Monos Medical University. Arthritis was induced by formalin (0.5 g/kg) injection into the phalangeal joints of mice. Sampilnorov and Zachun-13 were administered daily through oral tube at concentration of 42.5 mg/kg and 14 mg/kg respectively. Serum levels of TNF were determined 1, 3 and 7 days after initiating the treatment. Acupuncture, cauterization, pricking-cupping and massage were applied to patients once a day for 10 days. After 1 day of treatment, serum levels of TNF was increased 3.09 fold by formalin administration compare to control. This increase was reduced by Sampilnorov and Zachun-13 1.19 and 1.8 fold respectively. Serum levels of TNF were increased 3.0 fold in mice after 3 days of formalin administration. Sampilnorov and Zachun-13 reduced these increases 1.17 and 1.93 fold respectively. Serum levels of TNF increased 15.2 fold in patients with spinal disk herniation and long-term back muscle injury compare to normal range of TNF level. Acupuncture, cauterization, pricking-cupping and massage reduced increased serum levels of TNF in patients 1.3 fold. These results indicate that traditional drugs Zachun-13 and Sampilnorov and traditional external therapies including acupuncture, cauterization, pricking-cupping and massage can be effective for treatment of joint conditions by inhibiting TNF production.