Why Your Neck and Shoulders Just Won’t Relax — And What To Do About It
You’ve stretched, tried heat packs, and maybe taken magnesium — but your neck and shoulders still feel tight and uncomfortable.
If that sounds familiar, you’re not imagining it. Muscle tension, especially in these areas, often isn’t just about physical tightness.
Why Surface Solutions Sometimes Fail
Muscle tension can also be deeply linked to your nervous system. If your body stays in “survival” mode due to ongoing stress, that tension becomes your new normal.
Simply loosening the muscles isn’t always enough because your nervous system keeps telling your muscles to stay guarded and tight.
Two Approaches That Work Together
Direct Muscle Release:
Acupuncture needles help relax tight muscle fibers, making them easier to move and stretch. When combined with massage or gentle stretching, muscles stop resisting and tension eases.Nervous System Regulation:
Acupuncture also calms your body’s internal stress response. By reducing the nervous system’s hyperactivity, your muscles get the signal it’s safe to relax naturally.
Often, addressing both muscle tension and nervous system balance is what brings lasting relief.
Beyond Quick Fixes
Tight shoulders and stiff necks are often signs your body needs deeper care. If stretching and massage alone aren’t enough, acupuncture offers a way to break the cycle — supporting your muscles and nervous system to let go of tension and restore ease.
What to Expect When You Visit
We’ll begin by discussing what’s been bothering you most. I’ll observe any movements that might be limiting your range of motion or causing pain and look for areas of muscle tension. This helps me identify which muscles to target during treatment. Depending on how severe it is, we might focus on the muscles first. Alternatively, we can address the stress that may be contributing to the tension. My patients often tell me they feel lighter, have better mobility, and notice a reduction in pain after their sessions.