Neck and Shoulder Pain

Why Neck and Shoulder Pain Is So Common

Tight, stiff and achy muscles in the neck and shoulders have become common in modern life. Smartphones, computers, long commutes and desk jobs keep us looking down for hours at a time, which causes these muscles to tighten. Stress and deadlines add to the problem. Many people hold their stress in the shoulders, neck and jaw, and over time the muscles become shortened and knotted and build up lactic acid and other waste products.

How Acupuncture Works for Neck and Shoulder Pain

Acupuncture is thought to relax muscles by increasing blood flow through the small capillaries that feed them. The needle sends signals to the brain, which in turn increases circulation to the achy area so the muscles receive fresh blood and clear out built-up lactic acid.

Acupuncture has local and distal effects. Needles placed directly in a tight neck or shoulder muscle help it relax and draw the body's own pain-relieving substances to the area. Needles placed far from the pain, such as on the wrists, hands, ankles or feet, can also help reduce neck pain. Distal points are often useful when the pain is severe or when a patient is not comfortable with needles in the neck. During treatment, Joshua may ask you to move your neck or shoulder to check how the area is responding and to find other tight spots that become noticeable once the worst pain eases.

Cupping and Gua Sha

Cupping uses specially made glass cups that create suction on the skin over the neck and back. The suction pulls fresh blood into tight muscles and helps release spasms and waste products. Some people see purplish marks after cupping, but the treatment itself is painless. Gua sha, a skin scraping technique, is used to break up tight knots in the neck and shoulders.

Because stress and muscle tension are closely connected, Joshua often treats tight areas together with points that calm the nervous system. Many patients find this helps them relax both physically and mentally.

Self-Care Tips

• Stretch your neck and shoulders regularly, focusing on the tightest muscles.
• Press on the tight spot in the center of your jaw muscle for about a minute a day while breathing deeply, since releasing the jaw can ease tension in other areas.
• If a particular activity or workout keeps aggravating your shoulder, giving the area some rest can help it recover.