Frozen shoulder is a common condition classified as a degenerative disorder, primarily affecting middle-aged and elderly patients. This condition can be alleviated through physical therapy, exercise therapy, conservative treatment, and topical ointments. Cupping and acupuncture are unique treatments in traditional Chinese medicine. To explore whether these methods offer positive benefits for frozen shoulder, let's hear from Dr. Wang Guoshu, Deputy Chief Physician at Huizhou Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital, for a detailed explanation.
Is cupping effective for frozen shoulder?
Cupping therapy is effective for frozen shoulder. Cupping promotes blood circulation, resolves blood stasis, and balances yin and yang, thereby improving the flow of qi and blood. Whether targeting frozen shoulder or other types of pain, cupping can provide therapeutic benefits. Ointment application is also effective for frozen shoulder. Most patients experience improvement with ointment use, though the degree of effectiveness depends on the severity of the condition, the type of ointment, and its specific properties.
What are the TCM methods for treating frozen shoulder?
TCM approaches include internal and external therapies. External treatments encompass herbal poultices, acupuncture, massage, cupping, and moxibustion. Unlike conventional acupuncture, the acupuncture here combines needle insertion with moxibustion. Combined with herbal applications, localized stimulation, and targeted exercises, these constitute the TCM treatment methods for frozen shoulder.
How many days does acupuncture typically take to cure frozen shoulder?
The duration for acupuncture to cure frozen shoulder depends on multiple factors. First, it depends on the severity of symptoms. Second, it depends on whether the patient follows the doctor's instructions for exercises and keeping warm. These factors all influence treatment outcomes.Generally, patients with frozen shoulder who undergo acupuncture treatment may see resolution after about 10 sessions if the response is favorable. For those with a less favorable response, the treatment duration will be extended accordingly.
Strictly speaking, frozen shoulder is a self-resolving condition. Even without any treatment, the condition can gradually improve within 2 to 3 years.However, without proper management, frozen shoulder can cause significant damage to the surrounding tissues, leading to restricted shoulder mobility and potentially leaving chronic injuries. This may result in noticeable pain during cold, damp weather. Therefore, whether through interventions like cupping, acupuncture, massage, or moxibustion, the goal is to promote the resolution of sterile inflammatory lesions and reduce the harm caused by inflammation to the body.