Can shoulder periarthritis be treated with gua sha?

      As people age—or due to sudden inattention—the shoulder may become injured. Some individuals develop periarthritis of the shoulder (also known as “frozen shoulder”), a painful condition characterized by severe shoulder pain and restricted range of motion. Therefore, proactive prevention and management of periarthritis of the shoulder are essential in daily life, including protecting the shoulder joint. When necessary, medical evaluation and treatment should be sought at a hospital. So, can gua sha (scraping therapy) be used for periarthritis of the shoulder?

Can Gua Sha Be Used for Periarthritis of the Shoulder?

Yes, patients with periarthritis of the shoulder may undergo gua sha. This therapy can be combined with acupuncture, physical therapy, moxibustion, cupping, acupuncture-point puncture, or bloodletting to enhance its effects—particularly promoting blood circulation, resolving blood stasis, expelling pathogenic factors, and detoxifying the body. Functional exercises are highly beneficial for alleviating pain associated with periarthritis of the shoulder. Since gua sha helps regulate qi and blood flow, activate blood circulation, resolve stasis, unblock meridians and collaterals, and eliminate toxins, it aids in the absorption and resolution of inflammatory edema around the shoulder joint, relieves pain, softens adhesions and contracted ligaments or joint capsules, and supports functional rehabilitation exercises.

For patients with periarthritis of the shoulder, it is recommended to consume fresh fruits and vegetables to ensure adequate nutrition, while avoiding greasy, spicy, and cold foods. A nourishing porridge made with white peony root (Paeonia lactiflora) and peach kernel (Prunus persica) is advisable. Patients should avoid iron-pot-cooked meals, seafood, alcohol, and coffee. In daily life, maintaining warmth and preventing colds is important. Applying warm compresses to the affected shoulder for 10–15 minutes each evening for approximately one month is also recommended. Regarding medications, options such as ibuprofen (Fenbid®), celecoxib (Celebrex®), or topical diclofenac gel (Voltaren®) may be selected under a physician’s guidance—only one medication should be chosen.

When symptoms of periarthritis of the shoulder appear, prompt medical consultation and treatment are crucial to prevent disease progression. We hope this information proves helpful to you.