Shoulder Impingement

In elderly patients with shoulder impingement syndrome, the response to treatment may be somewhat slow due to the combination of degenerative changes in the rotator cuff tendons and reduced blood flow. In cases of osteoporosis, treatment is initiated primarily with shallow needle insertion, pharmacopuncture, and electroacupuncture rather than strong-stimulating needles; additionally, existing blood pressure, blood sugar, and antiplatelet medications are checked to ensure there are no conflicts with prescriptions. Even elderly patients can sufficiently achieve pain reduction and functional improvement after 3 to 4 months of treatment, and above all, the recovery of shoulder function to prevent falls is directly linked to quality of life. From the Perspective of a Korean Medicine Clinic: In Korean medicine, old age signifies a state where the body's fundamental energy is weakened, and the decline in the function governing bones and tendons affects both. Treatment places greater emphasis on reinforcing recovery power rather than eliminating negative energy, and the key is to strengthen the functions of relevant organs using herbal medicine tailored to the individual's constitution. External treatment utilizes methods that regulate stimulation levels to gradually promote the circulation of Qi and blood without excessive reactions, while invigorating warm energy through warm acupuncture and moxibustion. For elderly patients, we advise family members to visit together to receive lifestyle management education.