Decoding the effectiveness of acupressure in treating neck and shoulder pain

Neck and shoulder pain making you uncomfortable and tired? Acupressure therapy for the neck and shoulders is truly a “miracle” that helps you quickly and effectively relieve pain. With just a few simple pressure techniques, blood circulation is restored, muscles are relaxed, and instant comfort is achieved. When performed regularly, acupressure also helps prevent recurrence and protects your spine health.

Common Causes of Neck and Shoulder Pain

Neck and shoulder pain is a common condition that causes discomfort and restricted movement in the neck and shoulder area. Pain often appears in the morning upon waking and can significantly affect quality of life. The causes of this condition vary widely and are related to factors such as poor posture, spinal degeneration, and nervous tension.

Mechanical Causes

Everyday activities performed incorrectly can trigger pain and tension in the neck and shoulders. Overexertion, poor posture, or insufficient warm-up before exercise can injure muscles, ligaments, and joints in the neck and shoulder region.

In addition, sitting for long hours at a computer or constantly looking down at a phone also increases pressure on the cervical spine, leading to stiffness and neck fatigue.

Pathological Causes

Spinal conditions play a major role in causing neck and shoulder pain.

Degenerative spine disease and herniated discs are common causes, damaging vertebrae and discs, compressing nerves, and leading to pain.

Nerve compression and joint-related issues such as shoulder arthritis can also worsen pain and stiffness.

Cervical disc herniation is another frequent cause.

How Effective Is Acupressure for Neck and Shoulder Pain?

According to Traditional Oriental Medicine, neck and shoulder pain often stems from an imbalance between yin and yang, where blood and energy (qi) are not circulating smoothly. When external factors such as wind, cold, or dampness invade the body, they block qi and blood flow in the neck and shoulder area, resulting in pain, stiffness, and numbness.

This common condition affects many people’s daily lives. Besides Western medical treatments, acupressure massage is a natural, safe, and effective approach. By directly stimulating pressure points (acupoints), this technique relaxes muscles, boosts blood circulation, relieves pain, and prevents recurrence. Compared to other treatments, acupressure is affordable, easy to perform, and free from side effects—offering numerous health benefits.

Specifically, acupressure can help:

• Improve blood circulation.
• Enhance nutrient absorption.
• Stimulate the body’s natural healing, supporting internal recovery and restoring neck and shoulder mobility.
• Relax and soften muscles, release compressed nerves and tendons—quickly easing pain and stiffness in the neck and shoulders.
• Increase flexibility in the neck, shoulders, and upper back, and improve arm movement.

Additionally, massage and acupressure stimulate skin nerve receptors, creating comfort, relaxation, and better overall well-being.

How to Perform Acupressure for Neck and Shoulder Pain

Key Acupoints Used in Neck and Shoulder Acupressure

• Fengfu Point (Wind Mansion): Located in the hollow at the base of the skull, this point helps relieve neck and shoulder pain, stiffness, headaches, and tinnitus.
• Fengchi Point (Wind Pool): Found in the depression between the neck and ear, Fengchi helps reduce shoulder pain and relieve dizziness or ear ringing caused by poor posture or colds.
• Dazhui Point (Great Vertebra): Located just below the C7 vertebra, Dazhui relieves neck and shoulder pain and supports respiratory issues such as coughs or colds.
• Tianzhu Point (Celestial Pillar): Situated at the nape of the neck, Tianzhu effectively alleviates neck and shoulder pain, insomnia, and cervical spine issues.
• Jianjing Point (Shoulder Well): Found at the highest point of the shoulder, Jianjing helps ease upper back pain and stiffness in the neck and shoulders.

Precautions When Performing Neck and Shoulder Acupressure

• Do not self-treat without guidance: Consult a doctor or professional therapist before performing at home, especially for chronic pain or additional symptoms.
• Adjust pressure appropriately: Apply moderate force—too much pressure can cause injury.
• Combine with other methods: Acupressure works best when paired with physiotherapy exercises and posture correction.
• Maintain a healthy lifestyle: Limit alcohol and stimulants, eat a balanced diet, and exercise regularly.

Acupressure is a flexible and effective way to treat neck and shoulder pain. However, each individual’s body is different, so the technique must be adapted accordingly. For the best results, you should consult professional therapists for personalized assessment and treatment.