Acupuncture treatment for the rotator cuff

As an acupuncturist, I have treated many patients with rotator cuff injuries. Acupuncture is an effective and natural way to alleviate pain, reduce inflammation, and improve range of motion in the shoulder joint, you can read my previous blog about the shoulder here. In this blog, I will discuss some acupuncture points commonly used to treat rotator cuff issues, including SI11, GB21, LI15, and SI13.

SI11, also known as Tianzong, is located on the lateral aspect of the upper arm, about two finger-widths below the shoulder joint. This point is effective in treating pain and stiffness in the shoulder joint, particularly when caused by injury or overuse.

GB21, also known as Jianjing, is located on the top of the shoulder, halfway between the base of the neck and the tip of the shoulder. This point is effective in treating shoulder pain, tension, and stiffness, as well as headaches and neck pain.

LI15, also known as Jianyu, is located on the upper arm, about three finger-widths below the shoulder joint. This point is effective in treating shoulder pain, inflammation, and limited range of motion.

SI13, also known as Quyuan, is located on the back of the shoulder, in the depression below the scapular spine. This point is effective in treating shoulder pain, stiffness, and limited range of motion.

These acupuncture points are selected based on the anatomical location of the rotator cuff muscles and tendons. The supraspinatus muscle is located in the upper part of the shoulder blade and is responsible for lifting the arm. LI15 and SI13 are located near the supraspinatus muscle and are effective in treating pain and inflammation in this area.

The infraspinatus and teres minor muscles are located on the back of the shoulder blade and are responsible for rotating the arm outward. SI11 is located near these muscles and is effective in treating pain and stiffness in this area.

GB21 is located near the upper trapezius muscle, which is responsible for lifting the shoulder blade and rotating the neck. This point is effective in treating tension and pain in the shoulder and neck area.

During the acupuncture treatment, the acupuncturist will insert thin needles into these specific acupuncture points. The needles stimulate the body's natural healing response, reducing pain and inflammation and promoting circulation to the affected area.

Acupuncture is a safe and effective treatment for rotator cuff injuries. It is a natural alternative to pain medication and surgery and can be used in conjunction with other treatments, such as physical therapy and chiropractic care.