About 13.7 million people went to the doctor’s office in 2003 for a shoulder problem, including 3.7 million visits for shoulder and upper arm sprains and strains. It is not surprising that so many people injure their shoulders given its vulnarable anatomy.The shoulder is the most mobile joint in the body, yet it is dependent on the surrounding soft tissues for its stability. Essentially, it is held in place by the muscles and ligaments attached to it. There are twenty muscles involved in operating the shoulder. Any extreme movements in any direction can cause muscle fatigue or strain which may progress to tearing of ligaments and tendons. Eventually a diagnosis may evolve such as arthritis, bursitis, tendonitis, rotator cuff injury, adhesive capsulitis and so and so on.
The key to effectively treating most shoulder problems is to treat the cause of the problem. Acupuncture has the unique ability to relax the musculature, strengthen connective tissue, and promote healing by increasing circulation to the injured areas. Dr. Greenberg specializes in treating this type of tendinomuscular problem, commonly seen in shoulder injuries. He utilizes myofascial acupuncture points(trigger points) to effectively treat most shoulder Injuries.
The diagrams below illustrate how muscular reaction patterns can lead to different types of shoulder problems depending on the referral pattern of the affected musculature. Acupuncture points (trigger points) are marked “X” and are some of the most effective points to treat the associated referral pain patterns.
