Shoulder Impingement Acupuncture – How It Helps Restore Shoulder Function

Shoulder impingement is one of the most common causes of shoulder pain — especially among athletes, desk workers, and anyone who lifts overhead. This condition develops when the rotator cuff tendons and bursa become compressed beneath the acromion (part of the shoulder blade), resulting in pain, inflammation, and limited mobility.

Imaging Isn’t Always Clear

Mild shoulder impingement may not show up on an MRI or X-ray. Early-stage impingement often comes from functional issues—poor posture, muscle imbalance, or scapular motion problems—rather than structural damage. Imaging helps rule out tears or bone spurs, but many impingements are best diagnosed through clinical examination and movement assessment.

Scapular Motion Matters

A healthy shoulder requires coordinated movement between the humerus and scapula, known as scapulohumeral rhythm:

• The first ~ 30–60° of arm elevation mostly occurs at the glenohumeral joint.

• Beyond that, the scapula should rotate upward roughly 1° for every 2° of arm elevation — so the acromion moves out of the way of the rotator cuff tendons.

When muscles like the serratus anterior or lower trapezius are weak — or the pectoralis minor is tight — scapular motion becomes disrupted (scapular dyskinesis). That dysfunction can cause the humeral head to pinch soft tissues under the acromion, leading to impingement.

Symptoms of Shoulder Impingement

• Pain when raising or lowering the arm

• Night pain when lying on the affected side

• Weakness or stiffness in the shoulder

• Clicking or catching sensation

• Limited range of motion

Contributing Factors

Several elements can contribute to impingement:

• Repetitive overhead movements (sports, painting, lifting)

• Poor posture (rounded shoulders, forward head)

• Muscle imbalances — both tight and weak stabilizers

• Bone spurs or narrowed joint space

• Previous shoulder injury or instability

Acupuncture and Recovery

In cases of shoulder impingement, disrupted muscle tone and impaired neuromuscular control underlie much of the dysfunction. Acupuncture aids recovery by:

• Modulating nerve pathways that regulate muscle tone

• Releasing tension in overactive muscles (e.g. upper trapezius, levator scapulae, pectoralis minor)

• Reactivating weaker stabilizers (serratus anterior, lower trapezius)

• Enhancing circulation, reducing inflammation, and promoting neural adaptation

By helping the body reset muscle coordination and balance, acupuncture supports smoother shoulder motion, improved strength, flexibility, and pain relief — naturally.

Recovery Timeline & Expectations

• Mild cases: Many patients see improvement within 4–6 weeks of consistent acupuncture care

• Chronic or severe cases: Recovery may take 8–12 weeks or longer depending on inflammation, muscle imbalance, and overall health

Note: Individual results vary based on age, injury history, and compliance with follow-up exercises or posture correction strategies.

What to Expect at Orangetown Acupuncture

During your first visit, we assess your posture, scapular movement, and muscle balance. We then tailor a treatment plan combining acupuncture, soft tissue regulation, and corrective movement guidance. Each session is designed to restore your unique shoulder function.

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Orangetown Acupuncture – Orangeburg, NY

Pain relief | Sports recovery | Natural healing