Acupuncture for Neck and Shoulder Pain: Susie’s Story
When tension settles into the neck and shoulders, it can make rest difficult and everyday movement uncomfortable. Susie came to Queen City Acupuncture & Wellness Center in Matthews, NC after hearing how much acupuncture had helped a friend. She had tried acupuncture years earlier and remembered it as relaxing and helpful for releasing tightness. This time, she hoped to ease the stress in her neck and shoulders, relax her muscles, and regain some energy.
Looking for Relief from Neck and Shoulder Tension
Susie had previously received physical therapy following surgery on both hips and one knee. Although she valued that care, she says acupuncture offered a different experience for the tightness through her neck and shoulders. “The acupuncture does the work, and I receive the benefits of the muscles relaxing and the tension easing in my neck and shoulders,” says Susie.
A friend’s experience encouraged Susie to make an appointment. After hand surgery, her friend had struggled to fully stretch her hand; Susie saw the relief and change that followed treatment and decided it was time to try acupuncture for herself.
A Personalized Approach to Neck and Shoulder Pain Treatment
During her visits, Susie’s care has included acupuncture with electrical stimulation, red light therapy, and hands-on work. Susie says the manual component of her treatment is “the icing on the cake.” Her story reflects the center’s individualized approach: selecting supportive therapies based on the patient’s needs rather than relying on a one-size-fits-all session.
Garrett Krause, licensed acupuncturist, provides the clinical context behind Susie’s care: “Susie came to me with L-sided neck and shoulder pain. After assessment, I was able to determine that her pain was a combination of arthritis and localized muscle pain/weakness. Our course of treatment has involved twice-weekly sessions, utilizing acupuncture, dry needling techniques, manual muscle therapy, and heat. Since she began treatment, Susie has experienced a 50% reduction in pain and improved range of motion,” says Krause.
Susie says the treatments help her body “let go” and rest more easily, and she feels they have also supported her energy. “Relax, and teach your body to let go. Acupuncture has been around for quite some time, and it really does work for me,” she says.
Comfort, Consistency, and Compassionate Care
For Susie, the experience is about more than the techniques used during treatment. She describes Garrett Krause, LAc., as professional, kind, patient, and attentive. “Everybody always feels special. He makes time for them,” says Susie. She appreciates the care he brings to every appointment.
Garrett’s faith is also an important part of Susie’s experience of his care. Susie says that although “we live in such a time when people don't want to hear about spiritual things,” she has a great desire to share what this connection has meant to her. “I believe within the depths of my whole being that Garrett knows the Lord, and he serves the Lord. It's been such a joy and a blessing to know that he's such a strong believer,” says Susie. Her gratitude extends beyond Garrett himself: “I'm not just thanking Garrett for being who he is, I'm also thanking the Lord for making Garrett who he is. I pray that He will always keep Garrett near and that He will bless him. It is a privilege and a blessing to know him as a friend and as an acupuncturist,” she says.
Was Susie Skeptical About Acupuncture?
Susie understands why someone with neck or shoulder pain might wonder whether acupuncture will work. Her advice is simple: you may not know how your body will respond unless you try it with a qualified practitioner. For her, the experience has been worthwhile. “I cannot deny what I’ve experienced. It has really worked for me,” says Susie.
Explore Neck and Shoulder Pain Treatment in Matthews, NC
If persistent tightness, muscle tension, or discomfort is affecting your day, Queen City Acupuncture & Wellness Center offers personalized neck and shoulder pain treatment in Matthews, NC. Care may include acupuncture, electro-acupuncture, dry needling, cupping, shockwave therapy, and other supportive techniques when appropriate. Contact the center to request a consultation and learn which approach may fit your needs.
Request a consultation or call (980) 498-2895 to connect with Queen City Acupuncture & Wellness Center in Matthews.
Patient experiences are individual, and results vary. This story is not a guarantee of outcome or a substitute for medical diagnosis or treatment. Talk with a qualified healthcare professional about persistent or worsening pain.