Shoulder pain
The shoulder is a complicated joint. Many muscles are involved in movement and different structures become active at different ranges of motion. For example, when the arm is raised, the first 90 degrees is performed by the shoulder and the next 60 degrees is rotation of the scapula. Problems can occur with contractile structures like muscles & tendons, or structures such as ligaments, the capsule and bursa. By palpating the shoulder & surrounding areas and testing range of movement in different directions it is possible to evaluate what is causing pain and restricted movement within the shoulder.
Generally acupuncture is very effective in the treatment of shoulder problems. Acupuncture points on local tender areas and further down the arm are used to move energy along the affected meridian. When a dull ache or heaviness in the arm is felt during treatment, this is a sign that the needles are doing their work. Most pain is felt when palpating for painful areas, rather than the acupuncture itself.