When you hear the term “shoulder stiffness,” you might think it only affects the shoulders, but in reality, it often causes tension or stiffness in the neck and back as well. Shoulder stiffness is primarily associated with the trapezius muscle, which extends from the back of the head to the shoulders and even down to the lower back.
Humans are bipedal, which means their body structure tends to place a burden on the neck and lower back. Especially, the muscles from the neck to the shoulders tend to tense up to maintain posture, which in turn hinders blood circulation. This poor circulation is one of the causes of feeling heaviness in the shoulders.
In fact, according to the 2022 (Reiwa 4) National Life Basic Survey, it was found that many people, both men and women, are aware of their shoulder stiffness. Shoulder stiffness is one of the common symptoms that affects daily life.
Activities that involve maintaining tense posture in the neck or back, poor posture (such as slouching or hunching over), lack of exercise, mental stress, rounded shoulders, staying in the same position for long periods, carrying shoulder bags, and air conditioning are all factors that contribute to shoulder stiffness. Some specific conditions that make shoulder stiffness more likely are listed below:
These factors can individually or collectively contribute to the development of shoulder stiffness.
In some cases, shoulder stiffness may be an early symptom of conditions like cervicobrachial syndrome or frozen shoulder (frozen shoulder).
Diagnosis is made through patient history, neurological examination, particularly palpation for tenderness and muscle tension in the trapezius muscle, checking the range of motion in the shoulder joints, and identifying cervical spine disorders.
Shoulder stiffness may also be a secondary symptom of cervical spine disorders, cranial disorders, hypertension, eye diseases, ENT disorders, and shoulder joint diseases.
We carefully assess the symptoms that cause shoulder stiffness and provide appropriate treatment approaches.
Most shoulder stiffness is caused by poor circulation. Massage therapy improves blood flow to the muscles, alleviating tension and easing shoulder stiffness.
Acupuncture involves inserting fine needles into specific points on the body. The needles are so fine that there is virtually no pain. The stimulation from the acupuncture needles helps regulate the autonomic nervous system and immune system, alleviating muscle tension, improving blood and lymphatic circulation, and promoting the secretion of hormones to enhance natural healing.
Heating the affected area is effective in improving blood circulation. Heat therapy uses ultrasound or hot compresses to warm the affected area.
Exercise therapy is helpful for improving muscle tension. We offer stretches and lifestyle guidance to help alleviate shoulder stiffness.
Shoulder stiffness often leads to muscle tension around the shoulders, causing poor blood circulation. Muscle relaxants are used to ease this muscle tension. For shoulder stiffness, milder muscle relaxants are typically prescribed.
Incorrect posture can lead to reduced athletic performance and increased risk of injury or strain in sports. Proper posture is essential for reducing muscle tension.
Acupuncture treatment focuses on relieving tenderness and removing muscle hardening, and may also address mental stability and autonomic nervous system regulation. We apply this treatment to the cervical and shoulder areas as well as other related acupuncture points.
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Unlike rotator cuff tendinitis or tears, shoulder stiffness is primarily caused by poor circulation, so treatments focus on improving blood flow.
We approach the entire body, from the neck to the shoulders, back, and even the lower back and legs, addressing not only the self-perceived areas but also any hidden factors contributing to the issue.
Additionally, by incorporating breathing techniques and posture correction, we aim to improve range of motion and flexibility.
To achieve early improvement, we offer personalized counseling, customized treatments, and tailor-made therapies.
By inserting needles into hardened muscles and applying low-frequency currents, this excellent treatment method provides stable effects for chronic pain, muscle stiffness, and poor circulation.
By passively lowering and retracting the scapula, we aim to correct the position of the head.
The key is to activate the muscles that help maintain posture. Simply massaging will not lead to improvement.
From the current posture, we can predict areas where muscles will tighten or cause pain, and estimate future posture. This allows us to explain treatment plans and effectiveness more clearly, making it easier for patients to understand their body condition.
The foundation of your body is the feet. A misalignment of your body’s posture can stem from an incorrect foot position, so wearing customized insoles can help your body return to its correct posture. To correct this, we offer foot analysis using pressure distribution maps and provide custom insoles, which can help improve posture and alleviate tension in the shoulders and neck.
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