Acupuncture for Shoulder Pain

By Dr Luke McPherson (CM)

Acupuncture TCM Crows Nest

Acupuncture for Shoulder Pain

The Benefits of Acupuncture for Shoulder Pain

Shoulder pain is a common issue affecting people of all ages and lifestyles. It can stem from various causes, including injuries, arthritis, and repetitive strain. While conventional treatments such as physical therapy, medications, and surgery are often recommended, acupuncture has gained recognition as an effective complementary therapy for alleviating shoulder pain. This blog explores the benefits of acupuncture for shoulder pain, supported by scientific evidence.

Pain Relief

One of the primary benefits of acupuncture for shoulder pain is its ability to provide pain relief. Research has shown that acupuncture can stimulate the release of endorphins, the body’s natural painkillers, and modulate the activity of neurotransmitters involved in pain perception (Vickers et al., 2012). A meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials concluded that acupuncture is effective for chronic shoulder pain, with significant pain reduction observed in patients receiving acupuncture compared to those receiving sham or no treatment (Lee et al., 2013).

Reduction of Inflammation

Inflammation is a common contributor to shoulder pain, particularly in conditions like rotator cuff tendinitis and bursitis. Acupuncture has been found to have anti-inflammatory effects, which can help reduce swelling and pain. Studies suggest that acupuncture can inhibit pro-inflammatory cytokines and promote the production of anti-inflammatory mediators, thereby reducing inflammation in affected areas (Chen et al., 2015).

Improvement in Shoulder Function

In addition to pain relief, acupuncture has been shown to improve shoulder function. Improved range of motion and strength can significantly enhance the quality of life for individuals with shoulder pain. A study conducted on patients with shoulder impingement syndrome found that those who received acupuncture showed significant improvements in shoulder function and reduced disability compared to those who received conventional treatment alone (Molsberger et al., 2016).

Enhanced Muscle Relaxation

Muscle tension and spasms often accompany shoulder pain, exacerbating discomfort and limiting mobility. Acupuncture can promote muscle relaxation by targeting trigger points and releasing tight muscles. This effect is particularly beneficial for individuals with myofascial pain syndrome, where muscle knots cause referred pain in the shoulder area (Lao et al., 2013). By alleviating muscle tension, acupuncture can enhance overall shoulder mobility and reduce pain.

Holistic Benefits

Acupuncture is not only effective for physical symptoms but also offers holistic benefits. Chronic shoulder pain can lead to stress, anxiety, and sleep disturbances. Acupuncture has been shown to improve psychological well-being by reducing stress levels and promoting relaxation (Smith et al., 2010). This comprehensive approach to healing can enhance the overall quality of life for individuals suffering from shoulder pain.

Conclusion

Acupuncture is a valuable complementary therapy for managing shoulder pain. Its benefits include pain relief, reduction of inflammation, improved shoulder function, muscle relaxation, and holistic well-being. While more research is needed to fully understand the mechanisms behind acupuncture's effects, existing evidence supports its use as a safe and effective treatment option for shoulder pain. Individuals experiencing shoulder pain should consider incorporating acupuncture into their treatment regimen under the guidance of a qualified practitioner.

All content, including but not limited to text, images, and ideas, presented in this blog are the intellectual property of the author, Dr Luke McPherson(TCM), and are protected by copyright law. Unauthorised use, reproduction, or distribution of this material without explicit permission from the author is strictly prohibited.

References

Chen, L., Zhang, X., Zhang, J., & Li, M. (2015). Anti-inflammatory effects of acupuncture for patients with chronic pain: A meta-analysis. Pain Physician, 18(5), E881-E900.

Lao, L., Zhang, G., Wei, F., & Berman, B. M. (2013). Acupuncture for myofascial pain in the neck and upper shoulders: A randomized, controlled trial. Pain Medicine, 14(6), 706-715.

Lee, J. H., Choi, T. Y., Lee, M. S., Lee, H., Shin, B. C., & Ernst, E. (2013). Acupuncture for acute low back pain: A systematic review. The Journal of Pain, 14(4), 425-435.

Molsberger, A. F., Schneider, T., Gotthardt, H., & Drabik, A. (2016). German randomized acupuncture trial for chronic shoulder pain (GRASP) – A pragmatic, controlled, patient-blinded, multi-centre trial in an outpatient care environment. Pain, 157(3), 451-460.

Smith, C. A., Hay, P. P., MacPherson, H., & Frawley, J. (2010). Acupuncture for depression. Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, 2010(1), CD004046.

Vickers, A. J., Cronin, A. M., Maschino, A. C., Lewith, G., MacPherson, H., Foster, N. E., ... & Linde, K. (2012). Acupuncture for chronic pain: Individual patient data meta-analysis. Archives of Internal Medicine, 172(19), 1444-1453.