ACUPUNCTURE News

December 17, 2020  

Acupuncture is effective for shoulder pain relief. Two independent investigations find acupuncture effective for the alleviation of scapulohumeral peri arthritis, which involves inflammation of the shoulder region (including the tendons, muscles, and bursa). Both investigations determined that acupuncture successfully improves shoulder function and reduces or eliminates pain.

Panjin Central Hospital (Liaoning) researchers conclude that “acupuncture can significantly relieve shoulder and neck pain, thus improving clinical effectiveness.” [1] They compared two groups, one received medications and the other received tui-na and acupuncture. The study lasted from 2017 to 2018. Eighty patients were randomly divided into two groups. The drug observation group was comprised of 12 males and 28 females, with an average age of 53.5 ±2.3 years. The acupuncture group consisted of 19 males and 21 females. The mean age of the acupuncture group was 55.2 ±1.5 years.

The drug observation group was treated with regular medications. Patients took aspirin, sulindac (an NSAID), or nimesulide (an NSAID), and other drugs to clear inflammation and relieve pain. Additionally, the affected areas received regular injections based on the severity of symptoms. Injections included tetracaine (6-3 ml), prednisolone (2-3 ml), and vitamin B1 (1 ml). Injections were applied regularly based on individual pain levels.

Patients in the acupuncture group received tui-na massage relaxation techniques to relieve tension in the shoulders prior to acupuncture treatment. Needles were then inserted to a depth of 1–1.5 cun. During the 30-minute treatment periods, acupuncturists adjusted the needles to add more stimulation every ten minutes. 

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The researchers commented on the results. They noted that acupuncture stimulates brain centers to encourage the release of enkephalins, thereby contributing to pain relief. In addition, they noted that acupuncture enhances circulation, expels pathogenic factors, strengthens immunity, and regulates internal organ functions. Overall, they concluded that acupuncture reduces symptoms, improves quality of life, and is a viable treatment option for patients with cervical spondylopathy and shoulder peri arthritis. 

For the complete article, click on the active link below:  

 Acupuncture Shoulder & Neck Pain Relief (healthcmi.com) 

A great website run by Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center in New York.  Very informative! 

https://www.mskcc.org/cancer-care/diagnosis-treatment/symptom-management/integrative-medicine/herbs