Relieving Neck & Shoulder Pain with Acupuncture
With hours spent sitting, scrolling on our phones, and working at computers, neck and shoulder pain has become increasingly common. At Moon River Acupuncture Clinic, we approach all aches and pains holistically. In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), symptoms like neck or shoulder pain often reveal deeper imbalances within the body. These discomforts can significantly affect daily life, but acupuncture provides an effective way to address both the symptoms and their root causes.
Performed by licensed specialists, acupuncture offers a deeply restorative experience. It’s effective for conditions such as muscle tension, sciatica, hormonal imbalances, stress, digestion issues, and more. Using fine needles, acupuncture works through the connective tissue to restore the body’s natural energy flow, alleviating pain and promoting balance.
Can Acupuncture Help Neck Pain?
Research confirms that acupuncture is highly effective in treating neck pain. Complementary therapies like dry needling and cupping can further enhance healing when paired with acupuncture.
Neck pain is often interconnected with other symptoms such as joint stiffness, muscle knots, fatigue, or stress. As a holistic treatment, acupuncture addresses the underlying causes of these discomforts while relieving localized pain.
Common Causes of Neck Pain
Neck pain can arise from a variety of factors, including:
Prolonged sitting or poor posture
Uncomfortable sleeping positions
Stress or tension
Injuries like whiplash from car accidents or falls
Chronic conditions such as arthritis, fibromyalgia, or osteoporosis
The good news? Neck pain is one of the most common conditions we successfully treat at Moon River Acupuncture Clinic.
The Benefits of Acupuncture for Neck Pain
Acupuncture for neck pain not only alleviates stiffness and discomfort in the neck but can also provide relief for associated symptoms like headaches, sinus pressure, fatigue, and muscle tension. Patients often report feeling deeply relaxed and rejuvenated after their sessions.
What to Expect During an Acupuncture Session for Neck Pain
If needles make you uneasy, rest assured—acupuncture is a gentle and relaxing experience. During your session, your practitioner will:
Discuss your symptoms and medical history to uncover any underlying causes of your neck pain.
Develop a personalized treatment plan tailored to your needs.
Use 15-30 fine needles on carefully chosen acupuncture points.
The needles are typically left in place for about 30 minutes while you relax. You may feel mild sensations like warmth, heaviness, or tingling, but most patients find the experience soothing.
Key Acupuncture Points for Neck Pain
Some commonly used acupuncture points for neck pain include:
LI4 (Large Intestine 4): Found between the thumb and forefinger, this point helps relieve aches and pains throughout the body.
GB21 (Jian Jing): Located between the neck and shoulder, this point eases muscle tension and stiffness.
SJ3 (San Jiao 3): Situated between the pinky and ring fingers, this point is effective for stress-related neck and shoulder pain.
GB20 (Feng Chi): Found at the base of the skull, this point is helpful for headaches, fatigue, and stiff necks.
Luo Zhen: Located on the back of the hand, this point helps with neck soreness and whiplash.
Your practitioner will select points based on your unique condition to address both your symptoms and their root cause.
How Many Acupuncture Sessions Will You Need?
While many patients feel relief after just one session, chronic or severe pain may require additional treatments. Your acupuncturist will recommend a treatment plan tailored to your needs and lifestyle.
Additional TCM Therapies for Neck Pain
At Moon River Acupuncture Clinic, we offer a range of complementary therapies to enhance your healing:
Cupping Therapy: Promotes circulation and releases muscle tension.
Gua Sha: Reduces inflammation and improves mobility in tight areas.
Chinese Herbal Medicine: Customized herbal blends support long-term relief from pain and promote overall well-being.
Ready to Find Relief?
Chronic neck pain doesn’t have to disrupt your life. Whether caused by stress, posture, or an injury, acupuncture and other TCM therapies can provide lasting relief.
Book your personalized acupuncture session at Moon River Acupuncture Clinic today and take the first step toward feeling better.
