Acupuncture and Chinese medicine for slowest healing body parts: shoulder, Knee, ankle

(researchgate, 2025)

Acupuncture can be particularly effective in treating areas of the body that tend to heal more slowly, such as the shoulder, knee, and ankle. The rate at which different body parts heal is largely dependent on two key factors: blood supply and the degree of repetitive motion and constant use. Consequently, not all parts of the body recover at the same pace. Cartilage and ligaments are well-known for its extended healing process, whether the damage is due to injury or general wear and tear.  The shoulder, knee, and ankle all contain significant amounts of cartilage and ligaments, which are crucial for cushioning, smooth movement, stability, and structural support.  Given this, these joints require extra attention during injury recovery to prevent prolonged healing times, persistent chronic pain, and reduced mobility. 

Limited blood supply

 Unlike bones and muscles, cartilage lacks a direct blood supply, and ligaments are poorly vascularized, depending instead on surrounding connective tissue. This restricted blood flow significantly hinders their ability to heal, as blood is crucial for delivering essential nutrients and cells needed for recovery. The cells within these structures also reproduce slowly, further contributing to a protracted healing process. For context, estimated healing times vary significantly: skin typically heals in 1 to 4 weeks, muscles in 2 to 6 weeks, and bones in 6 to 12 weeks, whereas cartilage can take 3 months to several years, and ligaments require 10 to 12 weeks or more for recovery.

Constant Motion & Stress

The shoulder, knee, and ankle are in constant use, and this ongoing movement and load can stress healing tissues, prolonging the recovery process. Overloading a healing joint, especially with high-impact or repetitive activities, interrupts the delicate tissue remodeling process, preventing new, stronger bone or tissue from forming properly. Conversely, a complete lack of stimulation can also delay healing, as controlled motion is needed for cellular maintenance and repair. Appropriate rest and recovery, along with controlled motion, are important and can be guided by professionals such as physiotherapists.

Age and Nutritional factors

There are natural delay factors due to age-related declines such as impaired formation of new blood vessels, decreased cell growth factors, structural changes (more rigid), and prolonged inflammation.  A balanced diet rich in proteins, healthy fats, vitamins and minerals can provide your body with the essential nutrients needed to support the body's recovery processes. However, your digestive system also matters when it comes to absorbing those nutrients at the cellular level.

Why acupuncture for injury recovery for shoulder, knee, and ankle?

As mentioned above, these joints have limited blood supply and are regularly engaged in repetitive motions. Given these challenges, early intervention and appropriate rehabilitation are crucial. Acupuncture can be particularly beneficial by promoting increased blood flow to the affected areas, stimulating the body's natural healing responses, and reducing pain and inflammation. This can help to accelerate recovery, improve long-term joint function, and prevent persistent chronic pain or reduced mobility. Many acupuncture points support digestive function, which benefits the delivery of nutrients to the cellular level for reproduction.

If you are experiencing a slow healing process from a recent injury to your shoulder, knee, or ankle, or dealing with chronic pain in these areas after an injury or surgery, acupuncture could be an effective treatment modality to consider. I regularly work with clients facing these specific challenges.

About the Author

Youngmi Choi

Ripple Acupuncture | Charlestown | Newcastle

As an AHPRA-registered acupuncturist with 15 years of nursing experience, I offer safe, effective, and holistic care. My special interests include women’s health & fertility, pain management, psycho-emotional well-being, and digestive balance. My approach is outcome-focused, and clients receive a clear care plan with personalized lifestyle advice.

If you have any questions about your pregnancy conditions, please make an online booking, submit an online enquiry or call me on 0402 474 884. 

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Reference

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