Statistical analysis – Acupuncture treatment in patients with frozen shoulder

Abstract

Acupuncture has been investigated as a complementary treatment for adhesive capsulitis (frozen shoulder), particularly for the management of pain and functional restriction. Conventional acupuncture involves the insertion and stimulation of fine needles at selected acupuncture points. In traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), the treatment is understood in terms of regulating the flow of Qi and Blood through the meridians and addressing pathological patterns that may contribute to pain and restricted movement. From a biomedical perspective, acupuncture may influence sensory nerve stimulation and pain processing, potentially reducing pain and facilitating participation in therapeutic exercises. The study included 155 patients diagnosed with frozen shoulder, comprising 90 men and 65 women. The number of treatment sessions required to achieve complete pain relief and clinical improvement varied among the patients. A total of 93 patients achieved complete pain relief and improvement of their condition after fewer than two treatment sessions. Fifty-one patients required between two and five treatment sessions, while 11 patients required more than five sessions. The results of the present study demonstrated complete clinical recovery in all 155 patients following treatment, with resolution of pain and restoration of shoulder function and range of motion. The findings reported in the present research demonstrate highly positive clinical outcomes following acupuncture treatment and support its beneficial role in the management of frozen shoulder. The observed improvements in pain and shoulder mobility further encourage the use of acupuncture as a therapeutic approach for patients affected by this condition.

Keywords: acupuncture, pain, shoulder, traditional Chinese medicine