Acupuncture For Shoulder Pain

Acupuncture is an effective alternative to conventional orthopedic treatments for chronic shoulder pain, according to a new study from Germany’s Ruhr University Bochum, a public university.

For the study, 424 patients were examined in 31 orthopedist offices. The participants were randomized to three groups, with each group receiving either 15 treatments of acupuncture or orthopedic care. One group received standard acupuncture, a second received acupuncture applied to non-relevant acupoints and a third group received conventional orthopedic care.

Results showed greater range of motion including abduction and arm-above-head-test for the standard acupuncture group compared to the other two groups. Pain level reductions were also assessed. The standard acupuncture group had a 68 percent improvement in shoulder pain compared to 40 percent in the non-relevant acupuncture group and 28 percent in the orthopedic treatment group.

Conventional therapies for shoulder pain include medications, stretching, isometric exercises, and steroid injections. Acupuncture is a drug-free therapy for shoulder pain which can:

  • Increase motion range.
  • Reduce inflammation.
  • Alleviate night pain.
  • Reduce general discomfort.

Acupuncture can be useful in cases where conventional therapies have been ineffective. Your acupuncture physician may recommend a physical therapy program in addition to acupuncture treatment.

Acupuncture & Massage College’s Community Clinic offers acupuncture, massage therapy and herbal medicine for the treatment of a wide range of health conditions as well as for overall wellness. To schedule an appointment call (305) 595-9500. For information about AMC’s Oriental Medicine and Massage Therapy programs ask for Joe Calareso, Admissions Director.

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