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Post by erick on Feb 3, 2017 15:55:39 GMT -7
Dealing with some really bad shoulder impingement, among other things. Along with PT my doc recommended acupuncture, probably because she is an acupunctureist. So I've done one appointment and plan to do a few more but even though I've heard so many good things about I'm still skeptical.
So if you've used acupuncture in the past What have your experiences been?
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Post by derrek on Apr 21, 2017 5:56:29 GMT -7
I've had success with acupuncture for shoulder, as well as elbow and finger injuries. I was similarly skeptical the first time, though I had a big push from my wife who is a licensed veterinarian acupuncturist. My shoulder seemed to have impingement and possibly tearing from chronic use around the rotator cuff and labrum areas. Didn't bother to go to Doc, plan was to try acupuncture and reevaluate after a few sessions. It took about a month of sessions, 1-2 times a week with minimal climbing but once the pain level went down I began doing shoulder strengthening exercises to build up the muscles around the joint. This was several years ago and I am still doing the exercises at a minimum weekly. I believe this has helped greatly to prevent potential injuries The elbows and finger was more chronic use but I don't think I tore anything, they seemed fine after a few sessions of acupuncture and mobility exercise.
I am certainly a believer, and will do anything to avoid surgery. I'm sure I'm not the first climber with such injuries who has had success with acupuncture, but it seems that every time a climbing buddy complains about an injury and I suggest acupuncture the reply is generally "Yeah, I should try that" but they usually don't. Skepticism or fear of needles, I don't know but it is definitely Worth a try for chronic pain and small tear injuries IMHO. Even in conjunction with other more traditional treatments, there are little downsides. And if you can find a community acupuncturist it can be much More affordable to do several sessions, which are usually necessary for better results.
Just had a treatment last night for a minor shoulder tweak, trying to get ahead of it. I began training again after rugrat #2 and may have overdone it. Already feels better. The only other thing I got is that if you embrace it and let your mind be as open as you can it can actually work better. I know it sounds funny but I think it's true. I'm even at a point where my body almost joneses a bit for the release of serotonin. It's sort of a weird feeling. If you continue(d) the treatments, let me know how it works out for you!
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Post by willblack on Apr 21, 2017 11:46:52 GMT -7
I have a history of multiple shoulder injuries and acupuncture was really important in reducing some of the worst pain and, seemingly, inflammation so that I could do some rehab exercises. I don't think it's a cure-all, but it was helpful for me.
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