Shoulder pain is a common issue that affects many people, limiting their range of motion and causing discomfort in daily life. Whether it’s due to an injury, overuse, or a medical condition, shoulder pain can be debilitating. In Tokyo, acupuncture has emerged as a popular and effective treatment for relieving shoulder pain and restoring mobility. In this article, we will explore the causes and symptoms of shoulder pain, how acupuncture works to address this issue, and why it has become a trusted method for pain relief in Tokyo.
Understanding shoulders pain
Your shoulders each have two joints, making them the most flexible parts of your body.
The main shoulder joint – the glenohumeral – is a ball-and-socket joint. It’s called this because the top of the upper arm bone – the humerus – is shaped like a ball. This ball fits into the shoulder blade bone, which acts as the socket, giving your shoulder a wide range of movement. But, the shoulder socket is very small, compared to other ball-and-socket joints, such as the hip. It’s held together and controlled by a covering of muscles, which are secured to the bones by strong cords called tendons.
These muscles and tendons form a capsule around the joint and support its movements, but can make it more likely to dislocate than other joints.
Inside the capsule is the synovium, which produces fluid that lubricates the joint and keeps the cartilage healthy. The cartilage helps protect your bones from any impact and sits between the bones of your shoulder joints to stop them rubbing together.
Above the main shoulder joint there’s a smaller joint where the top of the shoulder blade – the acromion – meets the collar bone.
This is known as the acromioclavicular joint. It helps the larger joint below to move through its full range, particularly when you’re raising your arm, lifting or throwing.
Causes
Most shoulder problems only affect a small area and should last a relatively short time.
But sometimes the problem in your shoulder could be part of a wider, long-term condition such as, osteoarthritis or polymyalgia rheumatica.
It’s fairly common for people with rheumatoid arthritis to have pain and swelling in their shoulders.
Osteoarthritis is less likely to affect your shoulders than other joints, unless you’ve injured them in the past.
There are several other possible causes of shoulder pain, such as:
- inflammation, where your shoulder becomes hot, red, swollen and painful as a natural reaction to an infection or injury
- damage to the muscles and tendons around the shoulder
- tension in the muscles between the neck and shoulder – this is usually down to your posture in your upper back or neck, and is often linked the way you stand or sit when you’re using a computer or at work
- inflammation in the bursa – a fluid-filled cushion which normally helps the muscles and tendons slide smoothly over the shoulder bones
- damage to the bones and cartilage, which can be caused by arthritis.
It’s also possible the pain you’re feeling in your shoulder is coming from a problem in another part of your body, such as your neck.
Problems in your neck can make your shoulder blade or upper outer arm painful. When this happens it’s known as referred pain or radiated pain. If you’re feeling a tingling sensation in your hand or arm, as well as pain in your shoulder, it’s likely to be from a problem in your neck.
When to see a doctor
Unless you’ve had a serious injury or get a sudden, continuous pain, you can usually treat your shoulder pain without having to see your doctor.
If, after two weeks of treating yourself, you feel the pain isn’t any better you should see your doctor or a physiotherapist.
You should also see your doctor as soon as possible if you:
- develop severe pain in both shoulders
- also have pain in your thighs
- feel feverish or unwell.
These can be signs of the condition called polymyalgia rheumatica, which needs prompt treatment.
Acupuncture for Shoulder pain in Tokyo
Shoulder pain is one of the most common musculoskeletal complaints, affecting individuals of all ages. Whether caused by overuse, injury, or chronic conditions such as arthritis or frozen shoulder, the discomfort can limit movement, impair daily activities, and reduce the overall quality of life. Traditional treatments often involve medication, physical therapy, or surgery. However, acupuncture, a time-honored form of Japanese medicine, has emerged as a highly effective alternative therapy for shoulder pain. In this article, we will explore the effectiveness of acupuncture for shoulder pain, the specific acupuncture points used in treatment, the acupuncture process, and the potential risks and side effects.
Acupuncture is a holistic treatment that involves inserting fine needles into specific points on the body to promote natural healing and restore balance. While acupuncture has been used for thousands of years to treat a variety of ailments, it is especially effective in managing pain, including shoulder pain. The effectiveness of acupuncture for shoulder pain lies in its ability to address both the symptoms and underlying causes of discomfort.
How Acupuncture Works
Acupuncture works by stimulating the body’s energy flow. According to Traditional Oriental Medicine (TOM), energy flows along pathways called meridians. When there is an imbalance or blockage in the flow of energy, pain and disease can occur. By inserting needles at specific acupuncture points along these meridians, acupuncture helps restore the proper flow of energy, reduce inflammation, and relieve pain.
From a modern medical perspective, acupuncture stimulates the release of endorphins, which are the body’s natural painkillers. It also increases blood circulation and promotes tissue repair, which is particularly beneficial for injuries and inflammation in the shoulder joint.
Acupuncture has been shown to be effective in treating a variety of shoulder pain conditions, including:
- Rotator cuff injuries: Damage or inflammation to the tendons and muscles of the rotator cuff can cause significant pain and limit mobility. Acupuncture helps reduce inflammation and promote healing.
- Frozen shoulder (adhesive capsulitis): This condition causes stiffness and pain in the shoulder joint. Acupuncture can help restore range of motion and reduce discomfort.
- Shoulder impingement syndrome: Inflammation or irritation of the tendons in the shoulder can lead to pain when lifting the arm. Acupuncture alleviates this pain by improving blood flow and reducing inflammation.
- Osteoarthritis: Degenerative changes in the shoulder joint can cause chronic pain and stiffness. Acupuncture can help reduce these symptoms by improving circulation and promoting joint health.
- Bursitis: Inflammation of the bursa (a fluid-filled sac that cushions the shoulder joint) can cause shoulder pain. Acupuncture helps reduce inflammation and pain in the affected area.
Numerous studies have shown that acupuncture is an effective treatment for shoulder pain, particularly when used in conjunction with other treatments like physical therapy. In some cases, acupuncture has been found to provide longer-lasting relief compared to traditional pain management methods, such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).
Acupuncture Points for Shoulder Pain
Acupuncturists typically use a combination of local and distal acupuncture points when treating shoulder pain. Local points are located near the affected area (the shoulder), while distal points are located on other parts of the body that are connected to the shoulder through the body’s meridian system. By targeting both local and distal points, acupuncture can address the root causes of shoulder pain while promoting overall healing and relaxation.
Common Acupuncture Points for Shoulder Pain
- Jianjing (GB21) – Located on the top of the shoulder, this point is commonly used to treat shoulder tension, stiffness, and pain. It helps to relax the muscles and promote circulation to the affected area.
- Tianzong (SI11) – Found near the shoulder blade, this point helps alleviate pain and stiffness in the shoulder region. It is often used for conditions like rotator cuff injuries and frozen shoulder.
- Shousanli (LI10) – Located on the forearm, this point is used to reduce inflammation and improve blood flow to the shoulder. It is particularly effective for relieving pain that radiates down the arm.
- Fengchi (GB20) – Situated at the base of the skull, this point is effective for treating shoulder pain associated with neck tension. It helps release muscle tightness and improve range of motion in the shoulder.
- Zu San Li (ST36) – Located on the lower leg, this distal point is often used to support overall health and vitality. It is frequently included in shoulder pain treatments to improve circulation and promote healing.
The acupuncturist will select the appropriate acupuncture points based on the specific cause of your shoulder pain and your overall health condition. In some cases, multiple sessions may be required to achieve the desired results.
The Acupuncture Process for Shoulder Pain
The acupuncture process is simple and minimally invasive. The acupuncturist will first perform a thorough assessment to understand the nature of your shoulder pain and identify any underlying issues. This may involve a physical examination, as well as a review of your medical history and lifestyle.
Once the assessment is complete, the acupuncturist will select the appropriate acupuncture points based on the diagnosis. Fine, sterile needles will then be inserted into the chosen points. Most patients experience little to no discomfort during the insertion of the needles. After the needles are in place, you may feel a slight tingling or pressure, which is a sign that the acupuncture is working.
The needles will typically be left in place for 15 to 30 minutes, depending on the severity of your condition. During this time, you may feel relaxed or even fall asleep. Many patients find acupuncture to be a calming experience.
Acupuncture treatments are usually spaced a few days apart, with the total number of sessions varying depending on the severity of the shoulder pain. Some individuals may experience relief after just one session, while others may require several treatments to experience lasting results.
Risks and Side Effects of Acupuncture
Acupuncture is generally considered safe when performed by a licensed and trained practitioner. However, like any medical treatment, there are some risks and potential side effects to be aware of. These include:
- Mild soreness or bruising: After an acupuncture session, some patients may experience mild soreness or bruising at the needle insertion sites. This is typically temporary and resolves on its own.
- Dizziness or lightheadedness: In some cases, patients may feel lightheaded or dizzy during or after an acupuncture session. This is usually short-lived and can be alleviated by resting for a few minutes.
- Infection: While rare, there is a small risk of infection if the needles are not properly sterilized. It is important to seek treatment from a licensed acupuncturist who follows proper hygiene practices.
- Needle-induced injury: Although extremely rare, there is a slight risk of injury from the needles if they are inserted incorrectly or too deeply.
To minimize these risks, it is important to choose a qualified and experienced acupuncturist. Before undergoing acupuncture, make sure to discuss any medical conditions or concerns with your practitioner to ensure the treatment is appropriate for your situation.
Conclusion
Acupuncture is a highly effective treatment option for shoulder pain, offering natural pain relief and promoting the body’s healing processes. Whether you are dealing with a rotator cuff injury, frozen shoulder, or chronic arthritis, acupuncture can help reduce inflammation, relax muscles, and restore mobility to the shoulder joint. By targeting specific acupuncture points, this ancient therapy addresses both the symptoms and underlying causes of shoulder pain, helping you return to your daily activities without discomfort.
Don’t let shoulder pain hold you back from enjoying your daily activities. Book an appointment with Fuji Wellness today and start your journey toward pain relief and improved mobility with the power of acupuncture. We are here to help you heal naturally and restore your well-being.
Fuji Wellness
- Address: 132-0031 Matsushima 1-chome, 21-14, Tokyo, Japan
- Contact: Click here
- Email: sunnyphamsensei@gmail.com
