Acupuncture Reduces Shoulder Pain, Increases ROM
Shoulder pain affects 18-26% of adults at any point in time. Shoulder pain can range from mild to severe. People who suffer constant nagging pain in their shoulder have trouble performing activities of daily living that may involve lifting items.
Nagging shoulder pain can make it difficult for a person to concentrate and focus, affecting their productivity and efficiency. Many people with shoulder pain are unable to participate in their favorite activities and may report a low quality of life.
Some common causes of shoulder pain include arthritis, dislocation, pinched nerve, rotator cuff disease, bone spurs, and swollen bursa sacs or tendons.
Studies show that acupuncture may be an effective treatment for shoulder pain. Many people with chronic shoulder pain who decided to get acupuncture for pain in El Cerrito report that acupuncture relieves pain and inflammation and helps improve range of motion.
Many TCM proponents claim that acupuncture is one of the most effective modalities for reducing inflammation without the severe side effects associated with other treatment methods (that may use steroid injections or pain medications).
This is one of the most important benefits of acupuncture. Some side effects of steroids used to relieve shoulder pain can be devastating. For example, repeated shots of cortisone can cause damage to the area or infection at the site. It can also increase blood sugar levels, increasing the risk for diabetes.
Various studies have found that acupuncture helps treat shoulder pain by stimulating the pituitary gland to release cortisol, a steroid hormone that regulates a range of bodily processes. Many experts believe that acupuncture affects the rate at which neuropeptides are released from the peripheral nerve endings, a key part of the body’s inflammatory response.
A study conducted to determine the effectiveness of acupuncture in treating shoulder pain concluded that acupuncture can help improve shoulder mobility.
Researchers divided participants into two groups. Participants in the first group exercised regularly. Individuals in the second group received acupuncture treatment in addition to exercising.
Patients in the second group had higher mobility scores than those in the first group. The decline in pain intensity was also significantly higher. Researchers noted that benefits from acupuncture lasted for months.
Acupuncture treats shoulder pain by stimulating the pituitary gland to release natural painkillers. This ancient Chinese practice helps restore balance to the body by releasing energy blockages, allowing blood to move freely.
Stress can cause shoulder pain or stiffness. Acupuncture can help with stress by promoting the movement of Qi in the body. Anchor Acupuncture & Wellness is a leading acupuncture clinic in El Cerrito. Over the years, we have used acupuncture to help many men and women struggling with chronic pain get their lives back on track. Want to give acupuncture a try? To make an appointment, call (415) 855-3112.
About Post Author
Amanda Moler
Amanda Moler is a licensed acupuncturist and certified fertility acupuncturist (FABORM), serving San Francisco, CA. Her educational background includes receiving a bachelor’s degree in Peace Studies and Conflict Resolution from Antioch College in 2001 and in 2010, her master’s degree from American College of Traditional Chinese Medicine. In 2008, she also attended Pacific College of Oriental Medicine in Chicago, IL for education on acupuncture and oriental medicine. Asa Fellow of the American Board of Oriental Reproductive Medicine, she has gained recognition for treating complex women fertility cases, providing guidance on painful side-effects of drugs, hormones, and maintaining the overall well-being of women. Follow Anchor Acupuncture and Amanda Moler on Facebook , Instagram, LinkedIn.