What is Neck and Shoulder Pain?
Neck and shoulder stiffness and pain are very common symptoms. They primarily manifest as rigidity in the neck and shoulder area with a limited range of motion. Interestingly, some individuals may not feel any discomfort, but significant soreness becomes apparent when pressing on specific corresponding acupoints.
What Causes of Neck and Shoulder PainIn Traditional Chinese Medicine?
In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), the primary cause of neck and shoulder pain is due to the body’s exposure to external pathogenic factors, such as wind-cold, wind-dampness, or dampness from sweat. Wind-Cold occurs when the body is exposed to cold environments (cold weather, air conditioning, drafts, sleeping with the neck uncovered) and the body’s defensive Qi is unable to protect against invasion. Wind-Dampness develops due to exposure to humid or rainy conditions or when the body has difficulty processing fluids.
The wind-cold and wind-dampness can stay in the meridians (energy pathways) in the neck and shoulders to block the Qi and blood from flowing well, causing pain and stiffness. People in this category often experience accompanying cold or flu-like symptoms.
Another group presents with headaches or stubborn migraines. Among them, some may not specifically feel neck or shoulder discomfort, but examination often reveals stiffness in that area.This stiffness and pain are frequently the underlying root cause of the headaches and migraines.
A third group exhibits none of the above symptoms but instead shows signs of low mood or depression. However, these individuals often have underlying neck and shoulder stiffness and pain. By treating the neck and shoulder, the patient may experience significant improvement in depressive symptoms.
How Does Acupuncture Treat Neck and Shoulder Pain?
Acupuncture holds unique and unparalleled advantages in treating neck and shoulder pain. Regardless of the complexity of the cause behind the stiffness and pain, acupuncture can achieve fast, effective, and stable results. By needling specific acupoints, it stimulates the body’s meridian energy, opens the pathways, and expels pathogenic factors. This process clears the meridians and relieves pain. Acupuncture has a comprehensive theoretical foundation and over 2000 years of clinical practice in treating neck and shoulder pain, making its effects trustworthy.
The Importance of Early Examination and Treatment
Many patients suffering from neck and shoulder stiffness and pain neglect early treatment, dismissing the symptoms as not serious. However, delay often leads to worsening conditions. Crucially, some heart disease patients initially present only with neck and shoulder discomfort; procrastination in such cases can be life-threatening. Getting examined at Sage Naturopathic Clinic is straightforward and convenient.
Mild neck and shoulder discomfort can often be resolved within 1-2 treatments. For stubborn pain, a course of treatments including cupping and acupuncture can provide significant relief. Patients frequently report feeling physically lighter and in a better mood following treatment.
Are There Side Effects to Acupuncture for Neck and Shoulder Pain?
The neck and shoulder area is both vulnerable and crucial. Vital blood vessels and nerves pass through the relatively narrow passage of the neck to reach the brain, and the apexes of our lungs are also in close proximity. Therefore, it is essential to seek treatment from a professional and experienced acupuncturist.
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Ready to find relief from your neck and shoulder pain?
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Reference:
- Liang Qiu, M. (2013). Acupuncture. Shanghai Science and Technology Publications.
Catherine Zheng, Registered Acupuncturist
Sage Naturopathic Clinic