What is Frozen Shoulder?
Frozen shoulder, medically known as adhesive capsulitis, is a condition characterised by pain and stiffness in the shoulder joint. It is due to inflammation and thickening of the shoulder capsule, often triggered by injury, overuse, or underlying medical conditions.
It typically progresses through 3 stages:
Freezing - painful and limited movement
Frozen - severe stiffness with reduced range of motion
Thawing - gradual improvement in mobility
TCM Frozen Shoulder Causes
In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), frozen shoulder 五十肩 is understood through the lens of Qi (vital energy) and blood circulation, meridian imbalances, and the concept of external pathogenic factors like cold-dampness.
Meridians and Qi Flow
Meridians are energetic pathways that run throughout the body, connecting organs, tissues, and joints. Each meridian is associated with specific functions and emotions. When Qi and blood flow become obstructed along these meridians, it can lead to pain, stiffness, and reduced range of motion in the shoulder joint.
Cold-Dampness Pathology
Cold-dampness is a common pathogenic factor in TCM that refers to an accumulation of cold, damp, and stagnant Qi in the body. When cold-dampness invades the shoulder region, it disrupts the smooth flow of Qi and blood, leading to symptoms characteristic of frozen shoulder - which are pain, stiffness, and inflammation, and challenging for the shoulder joint to move freely.
TCM Treatments
Acupuncture: Acupuncture stimulates specific points to promote Qi and blood circulation, reduce pain and inflammation, and restore balance in the affected meridians. It can also address underlying imbalances contributing to frozen shoulder.
Herbal Medicine: TCM herbal formulas are used to invigorate Qi and blood, dispel dampness, and relieve pain and stiffness associated with frozen shoulder.
Gua Sha & Cupping Therapy: Gua Sha techniques and cupping therapy help release muscle tension, improve range of motion, and promote healing in the shoulder area.
