In Chinese medicine,
shoulder pain is viewed through the lens of meridian pathways and energetic imbalances
● Treatment often involves acupuncture, massage, and herbal remedies, aiming to restore the flow of Qi (vital energy) and blood to the affected area. Specific acupoints are chosen based on the location and nature of the pain, as well as the individual’s overall constitution.
Here’s a more detailed explanation:
● Meridians and Pain:
Chinese medicine identifies specific pathways called meridians that run throughout the body, connecting different organs and tissues. Shoulder pain is often linked to imbalances in the Lung, Large Intestine, Triple Energizer, and Small Intestine meridians. For example, front shoulder pain may be related to the Lung and Large Intestine meridians, while posterior shoulder pain may be linked to the Triple Energizer or Small Intestine meridians.
● Qi and Blood Stagnation:
Shoulder pain, from a TCM perspective, is often attributed to stagnation of Qi and blood in the affected area. This stagnation can be caused by various factors, including injury, poor posture, stress, or underlying health conditions.
● Treatment Approaches:
● Acupuncture: Acupuncture involves inserting thin needles into specific acupoints to stimulate the flow of Qi and blood, relieve pain, and promote healing.
● Massage (Tui Na): This form of massage therapy focuses on manipulating soft tissues to release tension, improve circulation, and restore balance.
● Herbal Medicine: Chinese herbal formulas are tailored to address the underlying imbalances contributing to the pain and can help reduce inflammation and promote healing.
● Cupping and Moxibustion: These techniques are also used to improve circulation and relieve pain. Cupping involves creating suction on the skin to draw out stagnation, while moxibustion uses heat from burning herbs to warm and stimulate acupoints.
● Addressing the Root Cause:
Acupuncturists often take a holistic approach, considering the individual’s overall health and lifestyle to identify the root cause of their shoulder pain and tailor treatment accordingly.