How does Acupuncture help with Frozen Shoulder?
Naturally alleviate discomfort, stiffness, and inflammation
Frozen shoulder is an inflammatory condition that causes pain and stiffness in the shoulder joint. Frequently (especially at night), the pain is intense, making it difficult to move the arm and shoulder. Loss of mobility can be debilitating and detrimental to quality of life. Shoulder stiffness is a chronic condition that can last for years and is typically treated with painkillers, anti-inflammatory medications, and steroid injections. Learn how acupuncture for frozen shoulder alleviates pain, stiffness, and inflammation naturally.
The origins of frozen shoulder
The inflammation of the capsule of connective tissue that holds the joint together is the cause of frozen shoulder. When the tissue around a joint becomes inflamed, it constricts and thickens, causing pain and reducing range of motion. Immobility or reduced mobility caused by a stroke or arm injury, such as a broken arm, can increase the likelihood of developing frozen shoulder. Diabetes, thyroid dysfunction, and cardiovascular disease are additional risk factors for frozen shoulder. This is believed to be caused by a dysregulation in cell signaling that affects the connective tissue proteins.
How exactly does acupuncture assist frozen shoulder?
Acupuncture is a risk-free and effective treatment for frozen shoulder. Acupuncture needles are inserted in the shoulder region (front and back), upper arms, elbow, and hand, in addition to any pertinent myofascial trigger points.
Acupuncture has the following benefits for frozen shoulder:
- Reduced Inflammation by inducing the release of immunomodulatory and vascular factors;These are neuropeptides (small proteins produced by specialized nerve cells) that regulate inflammation, blood vessel control, and blood flow in the body.
- Pain reduction and modification of the way the body reacts to pain.When an acupuncturist inserts needles into specific acupuncture points on the body, they stimulate the nerves in the muscles and other tissues to release serotonin and endorphins, which are natural painkilling chemicals. These chemical messengers promote relaxation and feelings of well-being and alter the way the brain and spinal cord process pain.
- Reduced shoulder stiffness and enhanced shoulder range of motion and mobility by increasing blood flow to the area.By increasing the diameter and blood flow velocity of the veins and arteries that supply the shoulder region, acupuncture improves local microcirculation. Inadequate blood flow in the shoulder joint and a deficiency of fluids in the shoulder bursa (the fluid-filled sacs that reduce friction between joints) contribute to pain and inflammation. Improved blood circulation in the shoulder region increases nutrient delivery and decreases pain sensation, allowing you to move your shoulder more freely without experiencing pain.
Treat frozen shoulder in a natural way
The painful and debilitating inflammatory condition of frozen shoulder that affects the shoulder joint. It occurs when the tissues surrounding the shoulder become inflamed and taut, causing the shoulder to become stiff and painful to move. Overuse or underuse of the shoulder or arm muscles can cause frozen shoulder, which can last for months or even years. Acupuncture can be used to treat frozen shoulder naturally, as it reduces pain and inflammation, improves blood flow to the area, and increases range of motion. Consult with one of our seasoned acupuncturists who will be able to advise you on the most effective method of treating your frozen shoulder.