shoulder pain

 Shoulder Pain: How Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) Can Help

Shoulder pain is a common problem that can be the result of injury, chronic tension, or a sedentary lifestyle. Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) offers a natural and holistic approach to treating shoulder pain. Through methods such as acupuncture, acupressure, herbal medicine, and Qigong, TCM not only relieves symptoms but also works to eliminate their causes, restoring the body’s energy balance.

Causes of Shoulder Pain According to TCM

In TCM, shoulder pain may be the result of disturbances in the flow of Qi and blood, often related to:

Qi and Blood Stasis – lack of free flow of energy and blood in the shoulder area can lead to pain and stiffness.

Invasion of Cold, Wind and Dampness – Exposure to cold, wind or dampness can cause tension and discomfort in the shoulder muscles.

Yang Deficiency – A deficiency of warm Yang energy can lead to chronic pain and stiffness.

TCM Shoulder Pain Treatment Methods

1. Acupuncture and Acupressure

Acupuncture is one of the key TCM methods used to treat shoulder pain. Inserting needles into specific points on the body, such as Jianjing (GB-21), Tianzong (SI-11), and Fengchi (GB-20), helps unblock the flow of Qi energy, reduces muscle tension, and relieves pain.

Acupressure is similar to acupuncture, but it doesn't require needles - it just presses on the appropriate points, which you can do yourself. Here are some important points to massage:

Jianjing (GB-21) – a point on the upper shoulder that, when pressed, helps relieve shoulder pain and tension.

Tianzong (SI-11) – a point on the shoulder blade that helps unblock the flow of energy and blood.

Hegu (LI-4) – a point on the palm that is helpful in general relief of pain and inflammation.

Using acupressure can provide relief from shoulder pain, especially if done regularly.

2. Herbal Medicine

Herbs in TCM have been used for thousands of years to treat pain and inflammation. Some herbs may be particularly helpful for shoulder pain:

Dang Gui (Chinese Angelica) – has anti-inflammatory effects, supports blood circulation and relieves pain.

Yan Hu Suo (Corydalis) – has an analgesic effect and is a natural pain reliever.

Gui Zhi (Cinnamon) – warms the body and helps with conditions related to cold and damp.

Chuan Xiong (Ligusticum) – supports Qi and blood circulation, reducing muscle tension.

Simple Herbal Recipe for Shoulder Pain

Tea for Shoulder Pain

Ingredients :

5 g Dang Gui (Chinese Angelica)

3g Yan Hu Suo (Corydalis)

5 g Gui Zhi (Cinnamon)

3 slices of ginger

Preparation : Boil all ingredients in 500 ml of water for about 15 minutes. Strain and drink twice a day, morning and evening.

This tea has analgesic and warming effects, helping to relieve pain and muscle tension.

3. Qigong exercises

Qigong is an ancient exercise system that improves the flow of Qi and helps restore the body's balance. Qigong exercises, such as "Shoulder Stretch" or "Chest Opening," help strengthen muscles, reduce tension, and improve flexibility in the shoulder area. Practicing Qigong regularly can help prevent tension and help strengthen the shoulders and arms overall.

Summary

Traditional Chinese Medicine offers effective and natural methods for treating shoulder pain. Acupuncture, acupressure, herbs, and Qigong exercises can help relieve pain, relax muscles, and improve energy flow in the body. Regular use of TCM methods can help reduce pain and restore harmony to the body.

Other diseases

Here you will find new information about Shoulder Pain and ways of treatment with TCM