How Dry Needling Can Help Frozen Shoulder
Frozen shoulder–also known as adhesive capsulitis–is a condition characterized by stiffness and pain in the shoulder joint. We need our shoulders to perform so many daily activities (e.g., dressing, bathing, cleaning, cooking, driving, etc). Shoulder pain and limited range of motion can have a significant impact on our functioning and quality of life.
In this post, we will look at what frozen shoulder is and how dry needling can help.
Understanding Frozen Shoulder
Frozen shoulder develops in three stages:
Freezing Stage: Gradual onset of pain and stiffness, lasting six weeks to nine months.
Frozen Stage: Stiffness increases, and range of motion decreases, lasting four to twelve months.
Thawing Stage: Gradual improvement in range of motion, lasting six months to two years.
The exact cause of frozen shoulder is not always known, but it is often associated with immobility due to injury, surgery, or underlying health conditions such as diabetes.
According to John Hopskins Medicine, “immobilization of the shoulder (after an arm injury, for instance) can lead to frozen shoulder. Inflammation of the muscles and/or tendons, as with rotator cuff tendinitis or bursitis, can also cause the shoulder joint to become frozen.”
What is Dry Needling?
Dry needling is a therapeutic technique that involves the insertion of thin needles into specific trigger points of the muscles, tendons, ligaments, or fascia. It is commonly used to alleviate pain - chronic and acute pain - and improve musculoskeletal range of motion.
Potential Benefits of Dry Needling for Frozen Shoulder
Dry needling offers several potential benefits for individuals with frozen shoulder:
Pain Relief: By targeting trigger points, dry needling can reduce muscle tension and pain, providing relief from the discomfort associated with frozen shoulder.
Improved Range of Motion: As pain decreases and muscle tension is relieved, patients often experience an increase in shoulder mobility, making it easier to perform daily activities.
Enhanced Blood Flow: The insertion of needles can stimulate blood flow to the affected area, promoting healing and reducing inflammation.
Neuromuscular Re-education: Dry needling can help reset the communication between the nervous system and muscles, improving muscle function and coordination.
Dry Needling: an Evidence-Based Approach
Dry needling is an emerging evidence-based treatment for frozen shoulder. A 2014 study published in the Journal of Orthopaedic & Sports Physical Therapy offers a case study of a patient with frozen shoulder which concludes that “outcomes [showed] significant improvement in shoulder ROM, pain, and function, especially after the addition of dry needling.” In a 2023 case report from JOSPT detailing treatment of a patient with freezing to frozen presentation of adhesive capsulitis, it is noted that there was an “immediate positive effect, and continued improvement … over the 5 dry needling treatment sessions. Clinically meaningful improvements in pain, ROM, and function were maintained at the final treatment session and at a follow-up session.”
Dry needling is a promising treatment option for individuals suffering from frozen shoulder. By targeting muscle trigger points, it can provide pain relief, improve range of motion, and support overall shoulder function. With the right treatment plan, you can work towards regaining shoulder mobility and improving your quality of life.
*To ensure safety and efficacy, always seek dry needling treatment from a licensed and experienced professional. State laws vary, but in Oregon, dry needling can only be administered by licensed acupuncturists.
Ready to Give Dry Needling a Try?
If you’ve been dealing with stubborn pain and haven’t found relief with other methods, dry needling might be worth a try. It might sound a bit daunting, but our experienced practitioners are here to make the process as smooth and comfortable as possible. We’re happy to answer any questions and talk you through each step.
Book an appointment or give us a call to see if dry needling is a good fit for you.