Table of Contents
As a licensed acupuncturist and holistic healthcare provider, I’m excited to share my approach to treating shoulder pain and injuries. Shoulder issues can significantly impact daily life, and acupuncture offers a natural, effective solution.
Understanding Shoulder Anatomy
To treat shoulder pain, it’s essential to understand the complex anatomy involved. Key muscles include:
- Trapezius
- Subscapularis
- Supraspinatus
- Teres minor
- Infraspinatus
- Biceps
Traditional Chinese Medicine Perspective
From a Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) perspective, multiple meridians intersect in the shoulder region, including:
- Large Intestine meridian
- San Jiao meridian
- Pericardium meridian
- Heart meridian
Acupuncture Treatment Approaches
Acupuncturists use various techniques to address shoulder pain and injuries, including:
- Direct needling of affected areas
- Contral and ipsilateral needling (treating opposite or same-side body parts)
- Distal needling (treating areas away from the shoulder)
Conditions Treated with Acupuncture
Acupuncture can effectively treat various shoulder conditions, including:
- Adhesive capsulitis (frozen shoulder)
- Rotator cuff injuries
- Tendinitis
- Bursitis
- Arthritis
Diagnostic Techniques
To determine the best course of treatment, acupuncturists may use:
- Range of motion tests
- Orthopedic examinations
- Imaging studies (MRI, X-ray)
- Lab results
Individualized Treatment
Each patient receives a personalized treatment plan, taking into account:
- Medical history
- Symptoms
- Biomedical condition
- TCM diagnosis
Acupuncture For Shoulder Pain Safe and Effective
Acupuncture offers a safe, effective, and natural approach to managing shoulder pain and injuries. By understanding the complexities of shoulder anatomy and using a combination of TCM principles and modern diagnostic techniques, acupuncturists can provide individualized treatment plans to promote healing and restore function.
Medical Disclaimer
This article is for educational purposes only. Consult a licensed healthcare professional for personalized advice and treatment.
Watch the video here: https://youtu.be/th18oN_yzPs?si=oyzapWcgQUmhcHXX
Carlo St. Juste II, MAOM has a background in acupuncture with over 10 years of clinical experience, published author, and over 16 years in the Martial Arts. He has worked with various organizations to implement employee wellness programs and workshops including The City of West Covina, The City of Brea, Broadcom, University of Southern California (USC), American Suzuki, and Pomona College. He is dedicated to promoting integrative health and has seen the benefits of knowledge and implementation first hand.