The circulation of qi and blood described in Donguibogam can be understood in modern medicine as a complex interplay of the nervous system, blood circulation, and muscle function. Experiencing shoulder heaviness and restricted movement, as in early adhesive capsulitis, can be a sign that subtle inflammatory reactions around the shoulder, nerve entrapment, and fibrosis of muscles and ligaments are gradually progressing, rather than just simple muscle knots. Our shoulder moves through the coordinated action of multiple muscles and ligaments known as the rotator cuff. When these delicate structures are stressed by overuse or poor posture, they sustain micro-injuries.
If these micro-injuries recur or fail to heal properly, inflammatory cells gather around the injured tissue, leading to a chronic inflammatory state. This inflammation stiffens surrounding tissues and secretes algogens that stimulate nerve endings. As a result, nerves become sensitized, initiating a vicious cycle where the brain perceives pain signals even more intensely. In addition, when muscle tone increases, blood circulation within the muscle is impaired, and the inadequate supply of oxygen and nutrients leaves the muscle stiffer and more vulnerable to pain. Modern medicine can diagnose this as myofascial pain syndrome or adhesion of the shoulder joint, which is the early stage of adhesive capsulitis.
Applying acupressure to specific acupoints on the hands or feet can be explained neurologically by reflex actions and the gate control theory. Stimulating specific acupressure points on the hand activates sensory nerves in the area, sending signals to the brain through the spinal cord. At this time, the brain promotes the secretion of natural analgesic substances such as endorphins to relieve pain, and at the spinal cord level, it closes the gate through which pain signals travel up to the brain, reducing pain perception. Furthermore, acupressure improves local blood circulation, which can help relax tense muscles in the shoulder area and alleviate the inflammatory response. Our bodies are closely interconnected, possessing the remarkable ability for stimulation in one area to improve function in another. Therefore, if you detect the heaviness or restricted movement of early adhesive capsulitis, proactively managing and preventing it during this period is the wisest way to prevent it from developing into chronic shoulder pain.
