I created a video demonstrating the combined use of Shousanli (LI10) and Zusanli (ST36).
Below, I explain the effects of each acupoint as well as the benefits of using them together.
In the latter half of the video, I also included footage showing the acupuncture treatment itself.
I would be grateful if you could watch and enjoy it.
Effects of Acupuncture on the Pectoralis Major Muscle
Acupuncture treatment for the pectoralis major muscle is expected to have several beneficial effects, including pain relief, reduction of muscle tension, and improvement of range of motion. However, the strength of the evidence varies depending on the condition being treated.
Expected Effects
Pain Relief
Acupuncture may help reduce pain associated with excessive tension or myofascial pain (trigger points) in the pectoralis major muscle. It may also alleviate referred pain in the anterior shoulder and chest regions.
Reduction of Muscle Tension
Acupuncture stimulation may decrease excessive muscle tension and improve muscle flexibility.
Improvement of Shoulder Function
Tightness or shortening of the pectoralis major can limit shoulder abduction and external rotation. Acupuncture treatment may help improve shoulder range of motion and overall function.
Increased Local Blood Circulation
Acupuncture may enhance local blood flow, promoting tissue metabolism and facilitating recovery.
Scientific Evidence
Moderate evidence suggests that acupuncture can provide short-term pain relief for myofascial pain syndrome. However, high-quality studies focusing specifically on the pectoralis major muscle are limited. Most research has investigated acupuncture as part of the management of shoulder pain, thoracic outlet syndrome, or sports-related injuries.
The therapeutic effects of acupuncture are thought to result from both local muscle stimulation and central nervous system mechanisms, including activation of endogenous pain-modulating pathways and the release of endogenous opioids.
Clinical Considerations
When performing acupuncture on the pectoralis major muscle, practitioners should be aware that the rib cage lies beneath the muscle, with the lungs located deeper. Excessive needle depth or an inappropriate insertion angle may increase the risk of pneumothorax. Therefore, treatment should be performed by practitioners with a thorough understanding of anatomy and appropriate needling techniques to ensure patient safety.
Conclusion
Acupuncture for the pectoralis major muscle may provide the following benefits:
- Pain relief
- Reduction of muscle tension
- Improvement of shoulder function and range of motion
- Enhancement of local blood circulation
Although these potential benefits are promising, high-quality evidence specifically addressing the pectoralis major muscle remains limited. Currently, acupuncture is most commonly used as part of a comprehensive treatment approach for myofascial pain and shoulder dysfunction.
From the perspectives of acupuncture and sports medicine, practitioners typically assess and treat not only the pectoralis major but also related muscles, such as the pectoralis minor, serratus anterior, trapezius, and subscapularis, to achieve optimal clinical outcomes.
#acupuncture# shoulder stiffness#stress#headach#back pain#motorpointarena #myofascical release#trigger point
HP
吸い玉、カッピングセミナー｜ライフ鍼・吸玉サロン(多摩市のはりと吸玉カッピングの治療院)
YOU TUBE
https://youtube.com/shorts/3ms88ceg0Eo?si=ljjAQZSQQ6vWNjIh
TIKTOK
https://lite.tiktok.com/t/ZSQcQ4ggp/
acupuncture training／URL
吸い玉、カッピングセミナー｜ライフ鍼・吸玉サロン(多摩市のはりと吸玉カッピングの治療院)
#MotorPoint#TriggerPoint#ShoulderStiffness#BackPain#Acupuncture#myofascical#stress
