CHAPTER 4 SHOULDER

Treatment routines in this chapter

The pain in these four conditions is independent of shoulder motions:

Routine - 11 Pain at the midpoint of the inner edge of the shoulder blade
Routine - 12 Pain at the lower third of the inner edge of the shoulder blade
Routine - 13 Shoulder pain with additional pain while breathing
Routine - 14 Pain next to the lower medial part of the shoulder blade with additional pain along the

thoracic spine
The pain in these two conditions is created by shoulder motions:
Routine - 15 Stiff shoulder with pain when raising the arm
Routine - 16 Shoulder pain when bending the arm behind the back
The treatment of upper back, shoulder blade, and shoulder pathologies

Shoulder pains are the third most common musculoskeletal pains, following lower back and neck pains.
Shoulder pains may be the result of traumas, but are more often due to occupational overuse, sport
strains, poor postural habits, postural deviations, or stress. The routines in this chapter are divided into two
groups: Shoulder disorders with pain that is created by shoulder motions, and upper back or shoulder blade
disorders with pain that is independent of shoulder motions. In the first group are disorders of the shoulder
joint (glenohumeral, and acromioclavicular joints) that are usually more serious conditions and take longer
to heal, though the Thai routines show excellent results in most cases in which surgery is not needed. In the
second group are disorders of the thoracic back and the shoulder blade that are often more mild and would
usually show fast therapeutic results. The Thai routines do not treat shoulder separation or subluxation that
require the intervention of a specialist.You can treat chronic conditions following such injuries using the Thai
routines, but exclude the shoulder stretches of the Thai general massage altogether! Choose one routine out
of the six according to signs relevant to the Thai diagnosis (see diagnosis table), regardless of the western
medical definition of the condition. Whenever the symptoms of your client match the symptoms described
by one of the Thai routines, try using it and observe your clients reaction. If your pressure is welcome by his
body, your treatment may give good results. If you notice any improvement, carry on.
Thai routines

64

Possible underlying pathologies

Pain at the midpoint of the

inner edge of the shoulder
blade

Muscular hypertonicity and myofascial trigger points

Muscle strain
Nonspecific neurovascular entrapments
Kyphosis (hunchback)
Scoliosis

Pain at the lower third

of the inner edge of the
shoulder blade

Muscular hypertonicity and myofascial trigger points

Muscle strain
Nonspecific neurovascular entrapments
Kyphosis (hunchback)
Scoliosis

Shoulder pain with

additional pain while
breathing

Muscular hypertonicity and myofascial trigger points

Nonspecific neurovascular entrapments
Costovertebral joints pain
Kyphosis (hunchback)
Scoliosis

Pain next to the lower

medial part of the shoulder
blade with additional pain
along the thoracic spine

Muscular hypertonicity and myofascial trigger points

Nonspecific neurovascular entrapments
Scoliosis
Kyphosis (hunchback)

Stiff shoulder with pain

when raising the arm

Adhesve capsulitis (frozen shoulder)

Subacromial bursitis
Calcific tendinitis
Rotator cuff tears or tendinosis
Shoulder impingement syndrome
Bicipital tendinosis or tenosinovitis
SLAP lesions (glenoid labrum injuries)
Osteoarthritis of the glenohumeral joint
Acromioclavicular sprain
Post shoulder separation
Post shoulder dislocation or subluxation
Muscular hypertonicity and myofascial trigger points
Nonspecific neurovascular entrapments
Scoliosis
Kyphosis (hunchback)
Adhesve capsulitis (frozen shoulder)
Calcific tendinitis
Rotator cuff tears or tendinosis
Shoulder impingement syndrome
Bicipital tendinosis or tenosinovitis
SLAP lesions (glenoid labrum injuries)

Shoulder pain when

bending the arm behind the
back

Adhesve capsulitis (frozen shoulder)

Calcific tendinitis
Shoulder impingement syndrome
Bicipital tendinosis or tenosinovitis
SLAP lesions (glenoid labrum injuries)
Muscular hypertonicity and myofascial trigger points
Nonspecific neurovascular entrapments
Acromioclavicular sprain
Kyphosis (hunchback)

Shoulder, shoulder blade and upper back pathologies:

Shoulder pains usually involve more than one defined pathology or more than one tissue dysfunction.
Adhesve capsulitis (frozen shoulder)
Severe loss of motion due to adhesions within the glenohumeral joint capsule and ligaments that shrink and
inhibit joint movement, thereby creating pain. This condition may be related to autoimmune failure, and the
healing process may take a very long time.
Subacromial bursitis
The inflammation of the subacromial bursa caused by its compression by the coracoacromial arch due to
repetitive stress or injury resulting in pain and restricted range of shoulder motion especially while raising
the arm.
Calcific tendonitis
A tendon condition produced by the deposit of calcium crystals in the biceps tendons or any one of the rotator
cuff tendons, but mostly in the supraspinatus, resulting in pain and restricted range of shoulder motion.
Rotator cuff tears or tendinosis
The most common shoulder disorder, involving minor or progressive damage due to overuse or trauma
injuries to four different muscles and tendons - supraspinatus, infraspinatus, teres minor, and subscapularis
- causing pain and restricted range of shoulder motion, possible joint instability and a clicking sensation in
shoulder motions. In severe cases, shoulder function may be greatly restricted.

65

CHAPTER 4 SHOULDER
Shoulder impingement syndrome
Compression of soft tissue between the head of the humerus and the coracoacromial arch that involves
tendon or bursa inflammation due to postural deviation or different shoulder pathologies. Typical to
impingement syndrome is a mechanical limitation in abduction around the 90 degree angle.
Bicipital tendinosis or tenosinovitis
Front aspect of shoulder tendinosis or tenosinovitis of the tendons of the short or long heads of the biceps
brachii muscle due to cumulative stress caused by occupational or other repetitive motions, creating front
shoulder pain and a restricted range of motion.
SLAP lesions (Superior Labrum from Anterior to Posterior) glenoid labrum injuries
Damage - usually tears - to the rim of the labrum (cartilage) due to injury, overuse, or degeneration. This
condition is often caused by a sports injury involving a strong pull on the biceps that are attached to the
glenoid labrum. Symptoms include severe pain and a restricted range of shoulder motion.
Osteoarthritis of the glenohumeral joint
Degeneration of the joints (cartilage and ligaments) causing inflammation and joint instability that results in
the growth of osteophytes, the impingement of soft tissue, pain, and a restricted range of shoulder motion.
Acromioclavicular sprain
Sprained ligaments of the acromioclavicular joint due to minor or major injury causing shoulder stiffness and
pain. Pain increases in different movements but mainly in horizontal adduction.
Shoulder dislocation or subluxation
Dislocation or subluxation of the glenohumeral joint caused by an injury. Shoulder dislocation or subluxation
is accompanied by the strain of the rotator calf muscles. Symptoms include severe pain, and inhibition of
shoulder motion. Do not treat; send to the physician! You may treat chronic conditions following such injuries
using the Thai routines, but exclude the shoulder stretches of the Thai general massage altogether!
Muscle strain
Overstretching of muscles of the shoulder girdle and upper back caused by a severe or a mild injury that
may create pains and stiffness.
Muscular hypertonicity and myofascial trigger points
Tightness of the cervical, thoracic and shoulder girdle muscles which developed as a result of repetitive
motion, postural stress, emotional stress, and injuries. Myofascial trigger points - tender taut bands within
hypertonic cervical, shoulder, shoulder blade and thoracic muscles - may develop creating stiffness and pain
as well as referred pain to different areas of the region.
Nonspecific neurovascular entrapments
The compression of nerve roots in the cervical or thoracic spine (radiculopathy) or peripheral nerves
(neuropathy) and/or blood vessels in the cervical, thoracic or shoulder region . Entrapments are caused
by either an injury - creating an acute condition - or by prolonged stationary postures, postural deviations
and/or muscular hypertonicity creating chronic conditions. Symptoms may include: Pain, burning or tingling
sensations, feeling of heaviness and weakness or numbness in the thoracic, shoulder blade, shoulder regions,
or in the arm and hand. Symptoms may increase in different activities and postures including sleeping
postures that create pressure on the affected nerve.
Kyphosis (hunchback)
The exaggerated kyphotic curvature caused by a genetic tendency, systemic conditions (osteoporosis,
rheumatoid arthritis, Scheuermans disease), developmental disorders, poor posture and/or advanced age.
Kyphosis may be an underlying cause for different specific pathologies and nonspecific general pathologies
creating symptoms such as: Fatigue, pain in the cervical and thoracic regions, and referred pain to the
shoulder blades, shoulders and arms.
Scoliosis
A lateral and rotational deformity, mostly of the thoracic spine but also of the lumbar spine, or in both spinal
regions. Scoliosis is either functional or structural, either inherited or acquired, and is the result of muscular
imbalance or bony deformity of spinal vertebrae. Scoliosis involves muscular imbalance and hypertonicity.

66

Symptoms include lumbar or thoracic back pain or pain along both the lumbar and thoracic spine, and
restricted range of motion. Scoliosis may be the underlying cause for different lower, middle and upper back
pathologies as well as shoulder and shoulder blade pathologies. However, individuals with scoliosis (even with
a serious curvature) that are involved in daily moderate physical activity and practice a corrective method
may not suffer any symptoms at all.
Costovertebral joints pain
An irritated joint between a rib and a spinal vertebra due to pressure created by minor injuries or postural
deviations, involving local and referred pain in different movements of the chest (as in breathing) or the
thoracic spine.
Contraindications and warnings

Do not treat a client if you suspect a

shoulder separation, dislocation, or

subluxation
After treatment by a specialist, Thai routines
will be very beneficial in the treatment of
symptoms created by the separation,
dislocation or subluxation. Exclude any
stretches of the shoulder.
Do not stretch the shoulder of a client with
a history of dislocation or subluxation
Refrain from working in the acute phase
of the first 3 days following a shoulder
trauma when the pain and spasms are very
pronounced

Treat at the subacute phase when the pain

and the spasm subside, and only following an
evaluation of the condition by a specialist and
with his permission.
Do not stretch when pains are created by
shoulder motions
Careful stretches may be helpful in chronic
cases.
Do not apply direct pressure onto inflamed
areas of the shoulder
However, a superficial massage in very
chronic conditions may be helpful.
Do not apply pressure that makes your
client shrink or move away from your hands

Red flags
If these symptoms are present, the client should be referred to a physician for evaluation.

Recent severe trauma such as a motor

vehicle accident or a fall

Severe pain over a bone
May indicate a fracture or an injury to a
ligament.
Severe protective muscle spasm
May hide a severe joint condition.
Constant or progressive pain

Persistent pain without an apparent cause

that has appeared suddenly

Pain that is not mechanical in nature

Shoulder pain with anxiety, and sometimes

with sweating
May be the signs of a heart condition.
Any unusual signs

Choosing a treatment basic guidelines

1. First find the movement that creates or aggravates pain. Ask your client to:
Flex his shoulder, raising his arm upward with his elbow straight.
Abduct his shoulder, raising his arm sideways with his elbow straight.
Horizontally adduct his shoulder, trying to touch the other shoulder as though embracing himself.
Extend his shoulder, raising his arm backwards with his elbow straight.
Medially rotate his shoulder, bending the arm behind his back.
2. When shoulder motions are not the major cause of pain, ask your client to show you the location of
the pain:
Is it next to the medial border of the scapula at the midpoint between the upper and lower angles?
Is it next to the medial border of the scapula, but lower than in the above case, located 2 or 3 fingers above

67

CHAPTER 4 SHOULDER
the lower angle of the scapula?
Is the focus of pain between the lower part of the shoulder blade and the spine with additional pain along
the thoracic spine?
Is it on the 2nd back line, level with the medial edge of the scapular spine?
Is it characterized by additional pain that is created when inhaling?
2. Choose one treatment
Once you have found the location and pattern of pain and/or the movement creating it, you can choose the
treatment accordingly. (See diagnosis table.)
3. Start the treatment and verify that you have chosen the right routine
As you press the points, watch your clients reactions and check whether or not the points of the routine you
have chosen are relevant and effective. Please do not bother your client with too many questions too soon! Let
him enjoy deepening states of concentration. He will often need some time into the treatment before being able
to express (not necessarily with words) whether the points are relevant or not. You can often expect reliable
reactions only at the second round of working the points. Use short questions such as: Here? Good? Painful? If
the lines and points are relevant and effective, carry on with your treatment you have chosen the right routine.

68

69

DIAGNOSIS TABLE
Routine - 11 (p. 74)

Routine - 12 (p. 76)

Pain at the midpoint of the inner

edge of the shoulder blade

Pain at the lower third of the inner

edge of the shoulder blade

Stiffness with or without pain is present adjacent

to the medial border of the scapula, at the
midpoint between the upper and lower edges
of the scapula.

Chronic stiffness with pain is located adjacent to

the medial border of the scapula 1/3rd or 1/5th
of the way between the lower and upper edges
of the scapula, 2 3 fingers above the lower
edge of the scapula.

Pain may appear suddenly, following a bad

movement or following a night of sleeping on
the shoulder.
Pain may radiate to the chest.
Pain may increase in neck movements or while
trying to touch the other shoulder, as though
hugging oneself (horizontal adduction), or during
a twist.

Pain location

70

Pain may be the result of months or years of

repetitive movement or stress, and it may disturb
sleep.
There is also pronounced stiffness of the soft
tissue at the area of pain.

Pain location

Routine - 13 (p. 78)

Routine - 14 (p. 80)

Shoulder pain with additional pain

while breathing

Pain next to the lower medial part

of the shoulder blade with additional
pain along the thoracic spine

Under this problem name are two different

treatment routines for two similar but separate
disorders. When the additional pain appears on
the chest, the routine of the 3 acupressure points
of the back is used, but when the additional
pain appears on the back, the front routine of
acupressure points on the chest is used.

Pain is located along the thoracic spine and at

the lower medial border of the shoulder blade.
There is also pronounced stiffness of the soft
tissue along the lateral border of the shoulder
blade.

Chronic or acute pain is located at point 3 of the

upper back.
Additional pain appears upon inhaling, either at
point 3 on the back or at point 1 on the chest.
The pain that appears while breathing is usually
secondary to the predominant pain at point 3.

Pain location

3rd back line

2nd back line

1st back line

Pain location

71

DIAGNOSIS TABLE
Routine - 15 (p. 82)

Routine - 16 (p. 84)

Stiff shoulder with pain when raising

the arm

Shoulder pain when bending the

arm behind the back (medial
rotation)

Pain increases while raising the arm backwards

(extension) and more so when bending it behind
the back (medial rotation).

Pain location

PAINFUL MOVEMENTS

PAINFUL MOVEMENTS

Index finger

Pain location

72

Ring finger

Pain increases while raising the arm upward

(flexion), sideward (abduction), while trying to
touch the other shoulder, as though hugging
oneself (horizontal adduction), or when bending
it behind the back (medial rotation).

Chronic or acute pain is located on the front

aspect of the shoulder.

Middle finger

Chronic or acute pain is located on the front

and/or back aspect of the shoulder.

73

Routine - 11 SHOULDER AND SHOULDER BLADE

Pain at the midpoint of the inner edge of the shoulder blade

3rd back-5

on the top edge of the trapezius

level with the medial border of the
scapula, directly above Scapula-3
a stiff and tender point, press
downwards cautiously

Scapula-3 (SI-14)

upper angle of the scapula run your fingertip up along

the medial border of the scapula until it turns lateral and
disappears under the levator scapula; press on that
spot, not letting the muscle slip sideways this is a stiff
and very sensitive point that radiates sensations in all
directions including to the head

11

Scapula-4

medial to the medial border of

the scapula in line with the
medial edge of the spine of
the scapula

10
9
8

Scapula-5

medial to the medial border of

the scapula 1/2-way between
the medial edge of the spine of
the scapula (Scapula-4) and the
midpoint of the medial edge of the
scapula (Scapula-6).

1/2 Scapula

Scapula-12

Scapula-11

5
4

lateral to the lateral edge of the

scapula 1 finger superior to
Scapula-10 2/3 of the way
from the lower angle of the
scapula to the axillary crease
(Ring-6) press toward the edge
of the scapula

lateral to the lateral edge of the

scapula medial to the axillary
crease (Ring-6)) find the top end
of the axillary crease and press
medial instead of upward a
very sensitive point over the teres
minor muscle

Scapula-10

Scapula-6

midpoint of the medial

border of the scapula

Scapula-7

medial to the medial edge of the

scapula 1/3 of the way from the
lower to the upper angles of the
scapula 1 finger under the midpoint
of the medial border of scapula

Scapula-8

medial to the medial edge of

the scapula 1/5 of the way
from the lower to the upper
angles of the scapula 1 finger
superior to the lower angle of
the scapula

Scapula-9

under the lower angle of the scapula and

slightly lateral find a thin slippery muscle

12

13
Anterior trapezius

1 finger lateral to the neck just off

the top edge of the trapezius on its
anterior aspect just anterior to 3rd
back-5 a tender point

Chest-2 (ST-13)

directly below the clavicle 1/2-way

between the midline and the lateral
borderline of the chest 3 fingers
lateral to the midline aligned with
the lateral edge of the neck

74

lateral to the lateral edge of the

scapula 1 finger superior to
Scapula-9 1/3rd of the way from
the lower angle of the scapula to
the axillary crease (Ring-6) press
toward the edge of the scapula

Problem description:

Stiffness with or without pain is present adjacent to the medial border of the scapula, at the midpoint between the upper
and lower edges of the scapula.
Pain may appear suddenly, following a bad movement or following a night of sleeping on the shoulder.
Pain may radiate to the chest.
Pain may increase while trying to touch the other shoulder, as though hugging oneself (horizontal adduction), or during a
twist.

Treatment steps
Precautions:

1. Neck and shoulder treatment

Consult a specialist before treating an acute or a

questionable shoulder condition.
Avoid stretching when treating acute conditions.
Treat daily until recovery.
Do not repeat treatment until after the client stops
feeling pain (if any) from the previous treatment.
Instruct the client to refrain from any quick or sudden
movement and from any hurtful activity or posture.

Position the client seated with legs crossed or

extended. If the client is uncomfortable sitting on
the floor, use a pillow
or a chair. Massage
the neck, upper back,
and along the medial
border of the scapula,
using any technique
with which you are
familiar. Do not stretch
at all!

Selected therapy points

2. Acupressure points
Thumb press points 1 through 12 two to
three times, then point 13 on the chest.
Return to the back to work points 1 - 12 and
then work point 13 again. Press each point for
10 to 15 seconds. Repeat
thumbing the points as long
as improvement occurs,
up to ten repetitions. Stop
working if the points become
sensitive. Use the amount of
pressure that
suits your
client.

11

13

75

Routine - 12 SHOULDER AND SHOULDER BLADE

Pain at the lower third of the inner edge of the shoulder blade

Scapula-5

Scapula-7

medial to the medial border of

the scapula 1/2-way between
the medial edge of the spine of
the scapula (Scapula-4) and the
midpoint of the medial edge of the
scapula (Scapula-6).

medial to the medial edge of the

scapula 1/3 of the way from the
lower to the upper angles of the
scapula 1 finger under the midpoint
of the medial border of the scapula

Scapula-8

medial to the medial edge of the

scapula 1/5 of the way from the
lower to the upper angles of the
scapula 1 finger superior to the lower
angle of the scapula

Scapula-6

midpoint of the medial border

of the scapula

4
1/2 Scapula
1/3 Scapula

3
2
1

76

Problem description:

Chronic stiffness with pain is located adjacent to the medial border of the scapula at the 1/3rd or 1/5th point between
the lower and upper edges of the scapula, 2 - 3 fingers above the lower edge of the scapula.
Pain may be the result of months or years of repetitive movement or stress, and it may disturb sleep.
There is also pronounced stiffness of the soft tissue at the area of pain.

Treatment steps

his arm. Using your elbow, work along the medial

border of the scapula.
Put your elbow on the
clients back, very gently
pulling and stretching
the skin downwards.
Then press onto the
soft tissue and push
upwards, strumming the
muscles.
Repeat several times.

1. Neck and shoulder treatment

Position the client seated with legs crossed or
extended. If the client is uncomfortable sitting on
the floor, use a pillow
or a chair. Massage
the neck, upper back,
and along the medial
border of the scapula,
using any technique
you are familiar with.
Do not stretch at all!

Precautions:

Consult a specialist before treating an acute or a

questionable shoulder condition.
Avoid stretching when treating acute conditions.
Treat daily until recovery.
Do not repeat treatment until after the client stops
feeling pain (if any) from the previous treatment.
Instruct the client to refrain from any quick or sudden
movement and from any hurtful activity or posture.

2. Acupressure points
In this routine, points 1 through 4 are
worked in a different manner. Thumb pressing
the therapy points using continuous extended
pressure will not be effective in treating this
ailment. Use the following techniques:
Stage a: Hold your clients elbow, pushing his
arm horizontally (horizontal adduction) towards
the opposite shoulder. Then pull to release
pressure, and then push again repeating this
movement several times
over. As you push the
elbow, press a therapy
point away from the
shoulder blade toward
the spine as though you
are strumming a guitar
string. Pull and then
Push the elbow again
and work on the next
point. Continue to the
next point. Repeat working the points as long as
improvement occurs and as long as you feel the
stiff soft tissue at the area of the points slipping
or clicking under your thumb. Work until the
stiff muscles become soft but not more than ten
repetitions. Stop working if the points become
sensitive. Use the amount of pressure that suits
your client.
Stage b: Instruct your patient to put his hand on
the opposite shoulder, and hold his hand so that
he does not have to exert any effort to hold up

Selected therapy points

77

Routine - 13 SHOULDER AND SHOULDER BLADE

Shoulder pain with additional pain while breathing

3rd back-5

on the top edge of the trapezius

level with the medial border of the
scapula, directly above Scapula-3
a stiff and tender point, press
downwards cautiously

Scapula-3 (SI-14)

upper angle of the scapula run your fingertip up along

the medial border of the scapula until it turns lateral and
disappears under the levator scapula; press on that
spot, not letting the muscle slip sideways this is a stiff
and very sensitive point that radiates sensations in all
directions including to the head

1
2

2nd back-9 (BL-13)

1 finger lateral to the spinous process of T-3

level with the medial edge of the spine of
the scapula on the highest point of the
paraspinal muscles press forward

3rd back Lin

1st back Line

2nd back Line

Scapular Spine

Chest-3 (LU-2)
Supraclavicle (ST-12 area)

in the supraclavicular fossa directly

above Chest-2 aligned with the
lateral edge of the neck press
cautiously towards the neck on the
anterior scalene radiates pain to
the arm

3
2

78

below the clavicle medial to

the coracoid process, in a deep
depression just before the shoulder
press medial to the coracoid
process

Chest-6 (ST-15)

2 fingers below the clavicle in the

second intercostal space 3 fingers
lateral to the midline aligned with
the lateral edge of the neck directly
below Chest-2

Problem description:

Chronic or acute pain is located at point 3 of the upper back.

Additional pain appears upon inhaling, either at point 3 on the back or at point 1 on the chest. The pain that appears
while breathing is usually secondary to the predominant pain at point 3 on the back. Some clients may even suspect a
heart condition and will go to the hospital when the pain while breathing appears on the chest.
Various movements may increase the pain in some cases, but not always and not in a fixed pattern.
This condition is often accompanied by low spirits.

Treatment steps
Precautions:

1. Neck and shoulder treatment

Consult a specialist before treating an acute or a

questionable shoulder condition.
Avoid stretching when treating acute conditions.
Treat daily until recovery. In chronic non-acute

conditions, treat twice a week.
Do not repeat treatment until after the client stops
feeling pain (if any) from the previous treatment.
Instruct the client to refrain from any hurtful activity
or posture.

Position the client seated with legs crossed or

extended. If the client
is uncomfortable sitting
on the floor, use a pillow
or a chair. Massage the
neck, upper back, and
along the medial border
of the scapula, using any
technique with which
you are familiar. Do not
stretch at all!

Selected therapy points

2. Acupressure points
Treat the opposite side: Use the set of points
opposite to the appearance of pain. Thumb press
points 1 through 3 of the back when the pain
while breathing appears on the chest. Thumb
press points 1 through 3 of the chest when
the pain while breathing appears on the back.
Press each point for 10 to 15 seconds. Repeat
thumbing the points as long as improvement
occurs, up to ten repetitions. Stop working
if the points become
sensitive. Use the amount
of pressure that suits your
client.

79

Routine - 14 SHOULDER AND SHOULDER BLADE

Pain next to the lower medial part of the shoulder blade with additional pain along the
thoracic spine

Scapula-12

1
2
3

lateral to the lateral edge of the scapula

medial to the axillary crease (Ring-6) find
the top end of the axillary crease and press
medial instead of upward a very sensitive
point over the teres minor muscle

Scapula-11

lateral to the lateral edge of the scapula

1 finger superior to Scapula-10 2/3 of the
way from the lower angle of the scapula to
the axillary crease (Ring-6) press toward the
edge of the scapula

Scapula-10

lateral to the lateral edge of the scapula

1 finger superior to Scapula-9 1/3 of the
way from the lower angle of the scapula to
the axillary crease (Ring-6) press toward
the edge of the scapula

80

Problem description:

Pain is located along the thoracic spine and at the lower medial border of the shoulder blade.
There is also pronounced stiffness of the soft tissue along the lateral border of the shoulder blade.

Treatment steps
Precautions:

1. Neck and shoulder

treatment

Consult a specialist before treating an acute or a

questionable shoulder condition.
Avoid stretching when treating acute conditions.
Treat daily until recovery. In chronic non-acute

conditions, treat twice a week.
Do not repeat treatment until after the client stops
feeling pain (if any) from the previous treatment.
Instruct the client to refrain from any hurtful activity
or posture.

Position the client seated

with legs crossed or
extended. If the client
is uncomfortable sitting
on the floor, use a pillow
or a chair. Massage the
neck, upper back, along
the medial border of
the scapula, the lateral
border of the scapula,
and along the Ring Finger Line on the outer arm,
using any technique with which you are familiar.

Selected therapy points

2. Acupressure points
Thumb press points 1
through 3 . Press each point
for 10 to 15 seconds.

Optional complementary procedure

3. Strumming the points

Thumb press points 1 through 3 as though
you are strumming a guitar string. Press against
the lateral border of the
scapula. Repeat working the
points using both methods
or the more effective one,
as long as improvement
occurs, up to ten
repetitions. Stop working if
the points become sensitive.
Use the amount of pressure
that suits your client.

81

Routine - 15 SHOULDER AND SHOULDER BLADE

Shoulder pain when raising the arm

3rd back-3

Scapula-3 (SI-14)

4 fingers below the occipital line

in the depression between the
trapezius and SCM 1/2-way
between the occiput and c-7

upper angle of the scapula run your fingertip up along

the medial border of the scapula until it turns lateral and
disappears under the levator scapula; press on that
spot, not letting the muscle slip sideways this is a stiff
and very sensitive point that radiates sensations in all
directions including to the head

3rd back-5

on the top edge of the trapezius

level with the medial border of the
scapula, directly above Scapula-3
a stiff and tender point, press
downwards cautiously

1/2 Neck

Scapula-14

Scapula-13 (SI-10)

directly above the axillary crease

below the lower edge of the scapular
spine press medially

2
3

Middle finger-6

4
8
15

1/2 Scapula

3 fingers below the lateral tip of the acromion

in the depression between the median and
posterior deltoids

11

9
10

Scapula-17 (SI-11)

7 6

Ring-6 (SI-9)

at the axillary crease

press upwards

14
12

13
Scapula-11

Scapula-6

midpoint of the medial

border of the scapula

Scapula-15

lateral to the medial border of

the scapula 1 finger inferior
to Scapula-14

1 finger inferior to Scapula-15

find a shallow depression in a
bony angle formed by the medial
and the lateral edges of the
scapula 3 fingers above the
lower angle of the scapula

Scapula-9

under the lower angle of the

scapula and slightly lateral
find a thin slippery muscle

Chest-3 (LU-2)

lateral to the lateral edge of the scapula

medial to the axillary crease (Ring-6)
find the top end of the axillary crease
and press medial instead of upward
a very sensitive point over the teres
minor muscle

Scapula-10

lateral to the lateral edge of the scapula

1 finger superior to Scapula-9 1/3
of the way from the lower angle of the
scapula to the axillary crease (Ring-6)
press toward the edge of the scapula

in the shallow depression formed when the

arm is raised sidewards below the lateral
edge of the acromion between the median
and anterior heads of the deltoid

Mid in arm-4

above the axillary crease 1 finger

lateral to a line drawn from the axillary
crease upwards to the clavicle place
thumb just above the axillary crease
and press laterally on the tendon of the
biceps, onto the humerus

Scapula-12

Index finger-5 (LI-15)

4
5

Mid in arm-5

1 finger lateral to a line drawn from the axillary

crease upwards to the clavicle level with the
midpoint between the clavicle and the axillary
crease place thumb on the borderline of
the chest and arm, and press laterally on the
tendon of the biceps, onto the humerus

Chest-4

On the borderline between the chest

and shoulder 1/2-way between the
clavicle and axillary crease

upper third of the scapula, halfway between

its medial and lateral borders find a very
sensitive point halfway from the upper angle of
the scapula to the axillary crease 1 finger from
Scapula-14 toward the axillary crease 1 finger
superior to Scapula-16 this point radiates in all
directions including to the front shoulder

lateral to the lateral edge of the

scapula 1 finger superior to
Scapula-10 2/3 of the way from
the lower angle of the scapula
to the axillary crease (Ring-6)
press toward the edge of the
scapula

Scapula-16

below the clavicle medial to

the coracoid process, in a deep
depression just before the shoulder
press medial to the coracoid process

below the scapular spine

lateral to the medial edge of
the scapula find a shallow
depression in a bony angle
formed by the scapular
spine and the medial border
of the scapula

Thumb-7 (Jianquan)

1/2-way between the axillary crease and the

lateral tip of the acromion 2 fingers lateral to
a line drawn from the axillary crease upwards
to the clavicle at the neck of the humerus
press in the depression at the medial border
of the anterior deltoid.

Thumb-6
Chest-5

at the anterior axillary crease when the

arm hangs in the adducted position
press the muscle upwards

82

above the axillary crease 2 fingers

lateral to a line drawn from the axillary
crease upwards to the clavicle press
in the depression at the medial border of
the anterior deltoid

Problem description:

Chronic or acute pain is located on the front or back aspect of the shoulder.
Pain increases while raising the arm upward (flexion), sideward (abduction),
while trying to touch the other shoulder, as though hugging oneself
(horizontal adduction) or while bending the arm behind the back (medial
rotation).
The range of movement is slightly to widely restricted. A sharp pain may
accompany the moving of the arm beyond a certain point that varies
individually from one person to another.

Treatment steps

Optional complementary procedures

1. Neck and shoulder treatment

3. Shoulder horizontal adduction

Position the client seated with legs crossed or

extended. If the client is
uncomfortable sitting on the
floor, use a pillow or a chair.
Massage the neck, upper
back, and along the medial
border of the scapula, using
any technique with which
you are familiar. Do not
stretch at all!

Hold your clients elbow and push it horizontally

(horizontal adduction) as far as it will go. Do
not push beyond the point of pain. Pull the
elbow back and then push again repeating this
movement several times. As you push the elbow,
press point 5
of the back set.
Release pressure
as you pull the
elbow back.

2. Acupressure points

4. Work the biceps and the triceps

Thumb press points 1 through 15 of the

back and 1 through 5 of the front. Try also
extra points A and B . If effective, use them. In
some cases, using the back set or the front set
of points may be sufficient. For example, when
the pain is on the back aspect only and the front
set of points seems ineffective, use only the
back set of points. Press each point for 10 to 15
seconds. Repeat thumbing the points as long as
improvement occurs, up to ten repetitions. Stop
working if the points become sensitive. Use the
amount of pressure that suits your client.

Instruct your client to cautiously place his hand

on your shoulder holding the arm straight. Be
careful not to raise his arm beyond the point of
pain. Work the outer arm along the humerus
(Index finger line) from the shoulder to the
elbow and back up several times using your
fingertips to pull and roll the biceps away from
the arm bone (humerus) with one hand and
then to pull and roll the triceps away from the
arm bone with the other
hand. Right pulls, and
then left pulls, right, left,
one after the other in a
flowing rhythmic manner.

Precautions:

Selected therapy points

Consult a specialist before treating an acute or a

questionable shoulder condition.
Avoid stretching when treating acute conditions.
During the entire treatment, avoid moving the arm
beyond the point of sharp pain.
Treat daily until recovery. In chronic non-acute

conditions, treat twice a week
Do not repeat treatment until after the client stops
feeling pain (if any) from the previous treatment.
Instruct the client to refrain from any quick or sudden
movement and from any hurtful activity or posture.

83

Routine - 16 SHOULDER AND SHOULDER BLADE

Shoulder pain when bending the arm behind the back

Chest-1 (KID-27)

at the lateral edge of the sternum in

the thin depression below the head of
the clavicle and above the first rib
radiates to the shoulder

Chest-3 (LU-2)

below the clavicle medial to the

coracoid process, in a deep depression
just before the shoulder press medial
to the coracoid process

Chest-2 (ST-13)

below the clavicle 1/2-way between

the midline and the lateral borderline
of the chest 3 fingers lateral to the
midline aligned with the lateral edge
of the neck

84

Ring finger

Middle finger

Index finger

Index finger-4 (LI-12)

2 fingers above the elbow crease

on the anteriolateral aspect of
the humerus between the biceps
and triceps press, then shift
upwards radiates to all fingers

Problem description:

Chronic or acute pain is located on the front aspect of the shoulder.

Pain increases while raising the arm backwards (extension) and more so when bending it
behind the back (medial rotation).
The range of movement is slightly to widely restricted. A sharp pain may accompany
the moving of the arm beyond a certain point that varies individually from one person to
another.

Treatment steps

1. Neck and shoulder treatment

Position the client seated with legs crossed or
extended. If the client
is uncomfortable sitting
on the floor, use a pillow
or a chair. Massage the
neck, upper back, and
along the medial border
of the scapula, using any
technique with which
you are familiar. Do not
stretch at all!

Precautions:

Consult a specialist before treating an acute or a

questionable shoulder condition.
Avoid stretching when treating acute conditions.
During the entire treatment, avoid moving the arm
beyond the point of sharp pain.
Treat daily until recovery. In chronic non-acute

conditions, treat twice a week.
Do not repeat treatment until after the client stops
feeling pain (if any) from the previous treatment.
Instruct the client to refrain from any quick or sudden
movement and from any hurtful activity or posture.
Selected therapy points

2. Arm therapy lines

Work the three outer arm lines and the Thumb
line, giving extra attention to the Index finger
line. Start from the axillary crease down to the
elbow and back up - between 1 and 3 times.
Use any technique
with which you
are familiar.
Thai massage
practitioners:
Thumb press the
above lines.

3. Acupressure points
Thumb press points 1 through 4 . Press each
point for 10 to 15 seconds. Repeat thumbing
the points as long
as improvement
occurs, up to ten
repetitions. Stop
working if the points
become sensitive.
Use the amount of
pressure which suits
your client.

85