How Acupuncture Can Help Treat a Variety of Shoulder Injuries
By Sarah Hayes, LAc, Acupuncture Northwest Portland
Shoulder pain is a common problem that can be effectively treated with acupuncture.
Below we’ve listed a few shoulder injuries and how acupuncture can help with different types of shoulder pain, including rotator cuff injuries, tendonitis, frozen shoulder, and arthritis.
Rotator cuff injuries
The rotator cuff is a group of muscles and tendons that surround the shoulder joint and help to keep the arm bone in place. Rotator cuff injuries can be caused by overuse, trauma, or degeneration with age. Symptoms may include pain, weakness, and limited range of motion. Acupuncture can help to reduce pain and inflammation, improve blood flow and promote healing in the affected area. Acupuncturists will typically insert needles around the shoulder and upper arm to target the affected muscles and tendons. In addition, electro-acupuncture may be used, which involves sending a small electric current through the needles to stimulate the muscles and nerves.
Tendonitis
Tendonitis is an inflammation of the tendons that attach muscles to bones. In the shoulder, tendonitis can occur in the rotator cuff tendons or the biceps tendon. Common symptoms include pain, stiffness, and weakness. Acupuncture can be an effective treatment for tendonitis by reducing inflammation and promoting blood flow to the affected area. Acupuncturists may use a combination of local and distal acupuncture points to target the affected tendons and muscles. They may also use cupping therapy, which involves placing suction cups on the skin to improve circulation and reduce pain.
Frozen shoulder
Frozen shoulder, also known as adhesive capsulitis, is a condition that causes stiffness and pain in the shoulder joint. It typically develops gradually over time and can last for several months or even years. Acupuncture can be a helpful treatment for frozen shoulders by reducing pain and improving the range of motion. We will typically use a combination of local and distal acupuncture points to target the affected muscles and promote circulation in the shoulder joint. They may also recommend stretching and other exercises to help improve range of motion.
Arthritis
Arthritis is a common condition that causes inflammation and pain in the joints. In the shoulder, arthritis can cause pain, stiffness, and limited mobility. Acupuncture can be a useful treatment for arthritis by reducing pain and inflammation and improving joint function. We will typically use a combination of local and distal acupuncture points to target the affected joint and surrounding muscles. They may also recommend dietary and lifestyle changes to help manage the symptoms of arthritis.
Acupuncture is a safe and effective treatment for various types of shoulder pain, including rotator cuff injuries, tendonitis, frozen shoulder, and arthritis. If you are experiencing shoulder pain, consider seeking the help of a qualified acupuncturist to develop a treatment plan that is tailored to your individual needs. With regular acupuncture sessions, you can reduce your pain, improve your range of motion, and get back to enjoying your daily activities.
