A Case of Frozen Shoulder Treated with Korean Medicine

Abstract

Background: This case study suggests the potential usefulness of Korean medicine treatment with herbal medicines for shoulder pain and improving the quality of life of patients with frozen shoulder.Case Summary: A patient had shoulder pain and decreased daily living function due to frozen shoulder. Korean medicine treatments, including herbal medicine; acupuncture at points TE14, HT1, BL11, SI10, and LI15; and pharma-acupuncture containing Sinbaro, were applied for 31 days. The Numeric Rating Scale scores for shoulder pain decreased from 7 to 4, and the Shoulder Pain and Disability Index scores decreased from 71.54 to 66.15, with an increase in range of motion from 30° flexion, 60° abduction, and 10° external rotation to around the normal range of motion.Conclusion: Korean medicine treatment can be considered an effective conservative management option for pain and decreased daily living function in patients with frozen shoulder.