Traditional Chinese Medicine Treatment for Frozen Shoulder | “Fifty Shoulder” Shows a Trend Toward Younger Onset
- crimson advertising
- Jan 3
- 2 min read
Updated: Jul 14

Will I get better eventually if I endure the pain?
For patients with shoulder periarthritis (commonly known as "frozen shoulder" or "fifty shoulder"), the answer to whether enduring pain can lead to natural recovery is not straightforward. According to Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), shoulder periarthritis is a common condition, particularly prevalent among individuals around the age of 50, characterized by shoulder pain and limited mobility. If not treated in a timely manner, the condition may worsen, leading to more severe consequences such as muscle atrophy.
Causes and Symptoms of Shoulder Periarthritis
The onset of shoulder periarthritis is associated with various factors, including prolonged poor posture, chronic overuse, environmental influences (such as wind, cold, and dampness), and lack of exercise. These factors can lead to stagnation of qi and blood, resulting in pain and restricted movement. Initially, patients may experience stiffness and mild pain, but over time, if appropriate treatment is not sought, symptoms can progressively worsen, significantly impacting daily life.
TCM Treatment Methods
Traditional Chinese Medicine suggests that therapies such as acupuncture, cupping, and tui na (Chinese therapeutic massage) can effectively unblock meridians, improve blood circulation, and relieve pain. Generally, it is recommended that patients undergo 6 to 8 sessions of TCM treatment to improve shoulder function and reduce pain. Additionally, maintaining proper posture during activities and engaging in regular exercise are crucial components of recovery.
Conclusion
Suffering from enduring pain without seeking treatment may lead to worsening of the condition; therefore, it is advisable to seek professional medical assistance promptly. Through holistic Traditional Chinese Medicine approaches, not only can targeted treatment for shoulder pain be provided, but overall health can also be improved to facilitate recovery.