frozen shoulder

Brief Description

Frozen shoulder, also known as adhesive capsulitis, is a condition characterized by pain, stiffness, and limited range of motion in the shoulder joint. It often develops gradually and can significantly impact daily activities. From a Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) perspective, frozen shoulder typically involves the stagnation of Qi and Blood, as well as the disruption of the meridians passing through the shoulder, particularly the Large Intestine, Small Intestine, and Sanjiao meridians.

Common Misconceptions

  • It will heal on its own with time. Many people believe that frozen shoulder will resolve without treatment, but without proper intervention, the condition may persist for years and lead to chronic stiffness.
  • Exercise alone is enough. While rehabilitation exercises are important, they may exacerbate the pain if performed incorrectly or prematurely.
  • Only older adults are affected. While more common in individuals over 50, younger people, especially those with certain systemic conditions or injuries, are also at risk.

TCM Diagnosis

Typical Tongue

Typical Pulse

Slippery, soggy, tight

TCM Pathogenesis

In TCM, frozen shoulder is attributed to a combination of internal and external factors:

Qi and Blood Stagnation: Caused by local trauma or prolonged immobility, obstructing the flow of energy in the shoulder. Phlegm: Phlegm can block the meridians and cause the limitation of movement. Wind-Cold-Damp Invasion: Exposure to cold or damp environments can cause obstruction in the meridians, leading to stiffness and pain. Deficiency Patterns: Underlying deficiencies in Liver and Kidney may result in weakened tendons and bones, especially in chronic cases.

TCM Treatment

General Principle

Depending on the specific conditions: 1. Regulate Qi and Blood: Use acupuncture and herbal medicine to remove stagnation in the affected meridians and promote circulation. 2. Dispel Wind-Cold-Damp: Apply warming techniques, such as moxibustion, to alleviate pain and stiffness. 3. Remove the phlegm and dampness. 4. Tonify Deficiency: For chronic or severe cases, strengthen the Liver and Kidney to nourish tendons and bones.

Unique Therapies We Apply

  • Dynamic Acupuncture Techniques: Specialized methods to enhance the flow of Qi and unfreeze blocked meridians
  • Herbal medicine to remove the phlegm, promote Qi and Blood circulation etc.
  • Fire Needle Therapy: For severe stagnation, fire needle therapy can improve local circulation and reduce stiffness.

Treatment Plan

  • Acupuncture treatment: 1-2 per week plus herbal medicine according to the individual situation.

Precaution

  • Avoid Prolonged Immobilization: Gentle, controlled movement is essential to prevent worsening stiffness.
  • Keep the Shoulder Warm: Protect the shoulder from cold and damp conditions, which can aggravate the condition.
  • Seek Timely Treatment: If raising the arm becomes difficult, seek acupuncture treatment promptly to prevent further complications.
  • Follow Dietary Adjustments: Avoid cold, raw, or greasy foods that may hinder circulation and generate internal dampness.
  • Be Patient: Frozen shoulder often requires sustained treatment over several weeks to months for optimal recovery.

Summary

Frozen shoulder is a debilitating condition that requires a multifaceted treatment approach in TCM, addressing both the symptoms and root causes. By regulating Qi and Blood, dispelling pathogenic factors, and strengthening deficiencies, TCM provides a holistic and effective path to recovery. Patients must remain consistent with treatment and proactive in their self-care to achieve lasting improvements.

TCM Dr. Ma

The Traditional Chinese Medicine treatment approaches outlined above are derived from my clinical experience, and I acknowledge there may be areas not fully covered or that require further refinement over time.

This content is intended to provide a learning reference for professionals and enthusiasts in Traditional Chinese Medicine and to help patients gain a better understanding of their conditions and common misconceptions.

However, I must emphasize that this information does not constitute specific treatment guidance. All TCM treatments must be tailored to the individual through thorough diagnosis by a qualified practitioner. Non-professionals should not attempt self-treatment based on this information, as any treatment conducted without professional supervision may carry potential safety risks.