Frozen shoulder, or adhesive capsulitis, is a condition that limits your shoulder's movement, causes significant pain, and impacts daily activities. While it often resolves over time, this process can take years without intervention. At The Point: The Place for Acupuncture, we offer effective solutions to break the freeze, using acupuncture and supportive modalities to restore mobility and relieve pain. Here’s a detailed look at how we address frozen shoulder, when surgery might be necessary, and how Standard Process supplements can support your recovery.
What is Frozen Shoulder?
Frozen shoulder is a condition where the shoulder joint becomes stiff and painful, often following periods of immobility. It progresses through three stages:
Freezing Stage:
Pain gradually increases, and mobility decreases.
This stage can last several months.
Frozen Stage:
Pain lessens, but stiffness worsens.
Daily tasks become challenging.
Thawing Stage:
Mobility slowly improves as adhesions dissolve.
Recovery may take 12–24 months.
Risk factors include diabetes, thyroid issues, and prolonged shoulder immobility after an injury or surgery.
Treating Frozen Shoulder with Acupuncture
Acupuncture is a proven treatment for frozen shoulder, addressing pain, stiffness, and inflammation while promoting recovery. It works by:
Reducing Pain: Acupuncture stimulates the release of endorphins, your body’s natural painkillers.
Improving Circulation: Increased blood flow helps reduce inflammation and speed healing.
Releasing Tension: Relaxes tight muscles surrounding the joint.
Enhancing Mobility: Gradually improves range of motion over time.
Modalities We Use at Our Clinic
Traditional Acupuncture:
Targets specific meridian points associated with the shoulder and overall health.
Restores the flow of qi (energy) to promote balance and healing.
Electroacupuncture:
Uses mild electrical stimulation to enhance the effects of acupuncture.
Particularly effective for chronic or severe cases.
Trigger Point Acupuncture:
Targets muscle knots in the shoulder and surrounding areas.
Relieves referred pain and improves function.
Cupping Therapy:
Applies suction to improve blood circulation and loosen fascia.
Provides immediate relief for tightness and pain.
Moxibustion-Free Heat Applications:
Uses heat-based techniques to stimulate acupuncture points and improve mobility.
Safe and effective for deep tissue tension.
When Should You Consider Surgery?
Surgery for frozen shoulder is rare and usually reserved for cases where conservative treatments fail. Here’s when it may be considered:
Chronic Pain:
Persistent, severe pain that limits your ability to sleep or work.
Failure of Non-Surgical Treatments:
No improvement after six months of consistent care, including acupuncture and physical therapy.
Severe Lifestyle Disruptions:
When stiffness significantly affects professional or personal activities.
Surgical Options for Frozen Shoulder
Manipulation Under Anesthesia:
The shoulder is manipulated to break adhesions while you are under general anesthesia.
Risks include fractures or tissue damage.
Arthroscopic Capsular Release:
A minimally invasive procedure where surgeons cut the tight joint capsule.
Recovery still requires extensive rehabilitation.
Surgery should always be a last resort after exhausting all conservative options.
Supporting Your Recovery with Standard Process Supplements
Nutritional support plays a crucial role in frozen shoulder recovery. At The Point: The Place for Acupuncture, we recommend targeted supplements from Standard Process to enhance joint health and reduce inflammation:
Turmeric Forte:
Curcumin-rich supplement known for its anti-inflammatory properties.
Reduces joint discomfort and supports recovery.
Ligaplex II:
Provides nutrients essential for connective tissue repair.
Helps restore strength and flexibility to affected joints.
Cod Liver Oil:
Rich in omega-3 fatty acids for reducing inflammation.
Supports joint lubrication and mobility.
Calcium Lactate:
Helps maintain optimal muscle and nerve function.
Useful for reducing stiffness.
These supplements can complement acupuncture treatments and optimize your recovery.
Daily Practices to Enhance Recovery
While acupuncture and supplements are effective, adopting the right habits can accelerate your healing:
Gentle Stretching:
Incorporate daily shoulder exercises like pendulum swings and wall crawls.
Helps maintain mobility and prevent stiffness.
Use Heat Therapy:
Apply warm compresses to loosen tight shoulder muscles.
Complements acupuncture sessions.
Mind Your Posture:
Avoid slouching and maintain proper ergonomics during work or daily activities.
Stay Active:
Light activities like walking or yoga can prevent overall stiffness and improve circulation.
Why Choose The Point for Frozen Shoulder Care?
At The Point: The Place for Acupuncture, we specialize in holistic care for frozen shoulder. Here’s what sets us apart:
Customized Treatment Plans: Each session is tailored to your specific needs and symptoms.
Complementary Services: We integrate multiple modalities, including cupping and electroacupuncture, to enhance results.
Nutrition Expertise: Our guidance on supplements ensures comprehensive recovery support.
We believe in addressing the root cause of your discomfort, providing lasting relief without relying on invasive procedures.
Conclusion
Frozen shoulder is a challenging condition, but with the right treatment, you can regain mobility and reduce pain. Acupuncture offers a safe, effective, and non-invasive solution to break the freeze. At The Point: The Place for Acupuncture, we combine advanced acupuncture techniques, complementary therapies, and nutritional support to help you recover fully.
If you're struggling with frozen shoulder, we’re here to help. Schedule your consultation today by visiting The PointAcupuncture Clinic or calling us at 980-220-0269.
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