Tight shoulders and chronic neck stiffness? When liver qi is blocked, the body stiffens too

The statement in the Donguibogam that the liver governs the sinews finds many parallels in modern medicine. Chronic stress causes an imbalance in the autonomic nervous system, hyperactivating the sympathetic nerve in particular. This leads to continuous muscle tension and keeps the muscles in the neck and shoulders from resting, causing waste products to accumulate and leading to circulatory disorders. When this state persists, microdamage develops within the muscles and inflammatory responses are activated, which can progress into chronic conditions like myofascial pain syndrome. Beyond acting as an organ of detoxification, the liver takes part in broad biological functions such as energy metabolism, hormone regulation, and immune responses. Stress promotes the secretion of stress hormones like cortisol, and the liver plays an essential role in metabolizing them. If ongoing stress overburdens the liver, hormonal balance breaks down and the systemic inflammatory response can be amplified. This chronic inflammation can hinder the recovery of muscles and connective tissue and increase pain sensitivity. In addition, as a blood reservoir, the liver regulates blood volume and circulation. Hypofunction of the liver negatively affects blood circulation, impeding the supply of oxygen and nutrients to muscles and slowing waste removal. This further worsens muscle rigidity and pain. Recent studies also focus on the interplay between liver, gut, and brain health. Stress-induced changes in the gut environment can affect the liver, which may in turn lead to systemic inflammation and neurotransmitter imbalances that worsen muscle pain. Ultimately, the circulation of liver qi and blood described in the Donguibogam aligns closely with what modern medicine views as autonomic nervous system regulation, hormone metabolism, anti-inflammatory responses, and systemic blood circulation. Tight shoulders and neck pain are not simply isolated muscular problems, but a reflection of the systemic stress response and the state of liver health.