Do you often feel tension in your neck and shoulders that just won’t go away—no matter how much you stretch, massage, or rest?
You’re not alone.
In today’s world of long work hours, digital devices, and high stress, neck and shoulder pain has become a daily struggle for many.
Fortunately, acupuncture offers a powerful, drug-free solution backed by both clinical experience and scientific research.
Why Neck and Shoulder Pain Is So Common
Your neck and shoulder are one of the most commonly injured areas. Some of the most common causes include:
- Prolonged screen time and poor posture (“tech neck”)
- Stress-related muscle tension
- Sleeping in awkward positions
- Repetitive movements or past injuries
- Jaw clenching or tension headaches
Over time, these factors can lead to inflammation, tight muscles, nerve compression, and chronic discomfort.
How Acupuncture Helps
Acupuncture is more than just pain relief—it addresses the underlying sources of tension, inflammation, and nerve irritation. Here’s how it works:
- Increases circulation to reduce inflammation and promote healing in muscles, joints, and even areas affected by disc herniation
- Releases trigger points and muscle tension that can compress nerves or worsen postural strain
- Calms nerve irritation from conditions like bulging or herniated discs, helping relieve radiating pain, numbness, or tingling
- Stimulates the nervous system to interrupt the pain cycle and reset how the body processes discomfort
- Promotes endorphin release, your body’s natural painkillers
- Reduces stress and muscle guarding, allowing the body to heal more efficiently
In our clinic, we often combine acupuncture with cupping, gua sha, and hands-on therapies for even deeper relief.
What the Research Says About Acupuncture for Neck Pain
Scientific studies continue to confirm acupuncture’s effectiveness for treating neck and shoulder pain. Here are three key findings:
- A 2024 meta-analysis found that acupuncture provides significant and lasting pain relief for chronic neck pain, with improvements in function and mobility lasting up to 6 months after treatment. https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s11916-024-01267-x
- A 2017 randomized controlled trial found that acupuncture applied to sensitive trigger points in the neck and upper back led to greater pain reduction and improved cervical mobility compared to standard care.
- 2024 systematic review: 18 RCTs analyzed, showing that acupuncture delivered sustained relief at 3 and 6 months post-treatment for chronic neck pain along with notable functional improvements. https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s11916-024-01267-x?utm_source=chatgpt.com
What to Expect During Your Acupuncture Treatment For Neck Pain
At your first visit, we’ll complete a thorough assessment to understand the root cause of your neck and shoulder pain. From there, we’ll create a personalized treatment plan based on your body’s unique needs and healing goals
Here’s what a typical session may include:
- Gentle, sterile needles placed in precise acupuncture points
- Relaxation time to allow your nervous system to reset and rebalance
- A complementary therapy such as cupping, medical massage, gua sha (scraping), or herbal topicals—based on what your doctor determines will best support your healing
Most treatments last an hour. While some patients feel noticeable relief after just 1–3 sessions, deeper and longer-lasting results are typically achieved with a series of 10–20 visits.
Take the First Step Toward Relief
Neck and shoulder pain can affect everything from your sleep to your ability to focus, move, and feel your best. But you don’t have to rely on painkillers—or face surgery—as your only option.
At Holistic San Diego, we specialize in personalized, results-driven acupuncture treatments designed to relieve pain, restore function, and support long-term healing. Many of our patients find significant relief and improved mobility without needing more invasive interventions.
Book your appointment today and take the first step toward lasting relief—naturally.
Click here to learn more about our acupuncture services.
San Diego Local Avoids Neck Surgery With Acupuncture at Holistic San Diego