Frozen Shoulder and Acupuncture

Acupuncture has been used as a form of alternative medicine for centuries. It involves the insertion of thin needles into specific points on the body to stimulate and balance the flow of energy, or qi. One condition that acupuncture has been found to be effective in treating is frozen shoulder, a painful condition that affects the shoulder joint and limits movement. In this article, we will explore how acupuncture can help treat frozen shoulder, and we will share the story of James Duffy, a patient who found relief from his frozen shoulder through acupuncture.

What is Frozen Shoulder?

Frozen shoulder, also known as adhesive capsulitis, is a condition that causes pain, stiffness, and limited range of motion in the shoulder joint. It occurs when the capsule that surrounds the shoulder joint becomes inflamed and thickened, making it difficult for the shoulder to move freely. Frozen shoulder can be caused by a variety of factors, including injury, surgery, or prolonged immobility.

How Acupuncture Can Help

Acupuncture has been shown to be effective in reducing pain and inflammation, as well as improving range of motion in patients with frozen shoulder. According to Classical Chinese Medicine or Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), acupuncture works by balancing the flow of qi, or energy, throughout the body. When the flow of qi is disrupted, it can lead to pain and illness. By inserting needles into specific points along the body’s meridians, or energy pathways, acupuncture can help restore the balance of qi and promote healing.

In addition to balancing the body’s energy, acupuncture can also stimulate the production of natural painkillers in the body, such as endorphins. This can help reduce pain and promote relaxation, making it easier for patients with frozen shoulder to move their shoulder and engage in physical therapy.

James Duffy’s Story

James Duffy, a 54-year-old man from Dublin, Ireland, suffered from frozen shoulder for several months. He had tried various treatments, including pain medication, physiotherapy, and cortisone injections, but nothing seemed to work. He was unable to lift his arm above his head or perform simple daily tasks, such as getting dressed or reaching for items on high shelves.

Desperate for relief, James decided to try acupuncture. He visited a local acupuncturist who specialised in treating musculoskeletal conditions. During his first session, the acupuncturist inserted needles into specific points on James’ shoulder and upper back. James felt a slight tingling sensation, but otherwise felt relaxed and comfortable during the treatment.

After just one session, James noticed a significant improvement in his shoulder mobility. He was able to lift his arm higher and perform simple tasks with less pain. Encouraged by these results, he continued with regular acupuncture treatments over the next several weeks. Each session brought more improvement, and after several months, James had fully recovered from his frozen shoulder. His story is fascinating, transitioning from allopathic medicine into a more holistic approach, James’ presentation is well worth a listen.

James Duffy  | The Pathways to Emotional and Spiritual Flourishing in the Classical Chinese Medicine Tradition

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Frozen shoulder can be a painful and frustrating condition, but acupuncture can provide an effective and non-invasive form of treatment. By balancing the body’s energy and stimulating natural pain relief, acupuncture can help reduce inflammation, improve range of motion, and promote healing. As James Duffy’s story shows, acupuncture can provide relief for patients with frozen shoulder who have not found relief through conventional treatments.