Last Updated on November 1, 2024
Rotator cuff injuries are some of the most common causes of shoulder pain and dysfunction. Made up of four musclesāsupraspinatus, infraspinatus, teres minor, and subscapularisāthe rotator cuff stabilizes the shoulder joint and enables a wide range of motion. Injury to any part of this group, whether from acute trauma or gradual wear and tear, can significantly impact everyday activities and quality of life. Traditional treatments like physical therapy, anti-inflammatory medications, and corticosteroid injections are often prescribed, but many patients are exploring acupuncture as an effective, minimally invasive alternative to manage pain and facilitate recovery.
Understanding Rotator Cuff Injuries

Rotator cuff injuries are typically classified into three main categories:
Tendinitis: Inflammation in the rotator cuff tendons, often due to repetitive overhead motion or sports.
Bursitis: Inflammation of the bursa, a fluid-filled sac that reduces friction between the rotator cuff and the shoulder blade.
Tears: Either partial or complete tears in the tendons, often from acute trauma, repetitive motion, or age-related degeneration.
Symptoms commonly include pain, weakness, restricted range of motion, and a grinding sensation during movement. Conventional treatment aims to reduce inflammation and promote tissue healing, yet for many, pain relief can be limited or come with side effects. Acupuncture offers a complementary approach, promoting both immediate and long-term relief.
Click here to learn proper shoulder stretching
How Acupuncture Works for Rotator Cuff Injuries

Acupuncture, rooted in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), is based on the concept of balancing the body’s energy, or āQi,ā by inserting fine needles at specific points along meridians. This approach helps alleviate pain, reduce inflammation, and promote healing in rotator cuff injuries by addressing both the local and systemic factors contributing to the injury.
Pain Modulation: Acupuncture releases endorphins, the body’s natural painkillers, and modulates neurotransmitters, like serotonin, that influence pain perception. This can help to decrease pain levels, often providing relief in the early stages of treatment.
Improved Circulation and Reduced Inflammation: In TCM theory, injuries are considered to involve “stagnation” in the bodyās energy flow. By stimulating certain points, acupuncture encourages circulation to the injured tissues, reducing swelling and accelerating healing.
Muscle Relaxation and Decreased Tension: Acupuncture points near the shoulder, such as LI-15 (Jianyu) and SJ-14 (Jianliao), are used to target muscles associated with rotator cuff injuries. Trigger points within the rotator cuff muscles and surrounding areas can be effectively deactivated, helping release muscle tension and improve flexibility.
Nerve Stimulation and Range of Motion: Acupuncture can reduce nerve sensitivity, allowing for better movement and function without the hindrance of sharp pain or stiffness. For patients experiencing referred pain or limited range, acupuncture can help improve muscle and nerve function over time.
Learn more about detoxing heavy metals
Acupuncture Points for Rotator Cuff Injuries
To target rotator cuff injuries effectively, acupuncturists select points locally and distally, creating a comprehensive approach to pain management and healing.
Local Points:
LI-15 (Jianyu): Located at the shoulder, this point is commonly used to treat shoulder pain, inflammation, and restricted movement.
SJ-14 (Jianliao): This point, located in the posterior aspect of the shoulder, is effective for reducing pain associated with the infraspinatus and teres minor muscles.
SI-9 and SI-10: Both points in the scapular region, beneficial for treating rotator cuff issues and increasing range of motion.
Distal Points:
LI-4 (Hegu): Situated on the hand, this point is powerful for alleviating pain in the upper body, including shoulder injuries.
GB-34 (Yanglingquan): Located on the lower leg, this point is known for its muscle-relaxing properties, especially beneficial when shoulder muscles are stiff and painful.
Trigger Points: Trigger points within the rotator cuff muscles, particularly the supraspinatus and infraspinatus, are also treated. Using needles to target these specific muscle fibers can release tension and alleviate pain.
The Benefits of Acupuncture for Rotator Cuff Recovery
Patients who incorporate acupuncture into their treatment plan often report faster pain relief, better shoulder mobility, and overall improvements in quality of life. Acupuncture’s benefits for rotator cuff injuries include:
Reduced Dependency on Medication: Patients often find they need fewer pain medications, which can reduce the risk of side effects associated with long-term medication use.
Accelerated Healing: By increasing blood flow and reducing inflammation, acupuncture supports the bodyās natural healing processes.
Improved Sleep and Mood: Chronic pain affects sleep and mood. Acupuncture promotes relaxation and helps alleviate anxiety and stress related to injury, improving sleep and emotional well-being.
Holistic Rehabilitation: Acupuncture can also be combined with other therapies such as physical therapy or massage, creating a well-rounded, holistic approach to rehabilitation.
8 Best Chiropractors in Portland Oregon
What to Expect During Acupuncture Treatment
During a typical acupuncture session, a licensed practitioner will conduct an assessment to identify the best points for addressing both the local and systemic aspects of the rotator cuff injury. Treatment involves the insertion of fine, sterile needles that are left in place for 20-30 minutes. Patients may experience a dull ache, warmth, or tingling sensation at the needle sites, which often subside as the body relaxes.
For rotator cuff injuries, a treatment series is generally recommended, starting with sessions one to two times per week, then tapering down as symptoms improve. Acupuncture is gentle, minimally invasive, and has a low risk of side effects, making it suitable for a wide range of patients, including athletes and those with chronic shoulder issues.

Conclusion
Acupuncture presents a promising option for those seeking pain relief and functional recovery from rotator cuff injuries. By addressing not only the symptoms but also the underlying imbalances in the body, acupuncture supports the bodyās natural healing mechanisms. For anyone managing a rotator cuff injury, acupuncture offers a pathway to relief that complements traditional approaches, fosters long-term healing, and helps prevent future injury. If youāre considering acupuncture for your rotator cuff, consult with a licensed practitioner who specializes in musculoskeletal injuries to develop a treatment plan that aligns with your recovery goals.