The Power of Acupuncture for Chronic Neck Pain: Targeted Relief With Acupuncture & Acupressure Points
Chronic neck pain is one of the most common complaints among adults today, often resulting from poor posture, stress, or even the repetitive strain of modern technology use—cue the infamous “tech neck.” While many seek relief through medications or physical therapy, acupuncture offers a natural, effective, and time-tested solution to alleviate neck pain and improve overall well-being.
By targeting specific acupuncture points, this ancient practice stimulates the body’s natural healing process, relieves muscle tension, and improves circulation to the affected areas. Here, we explore the best acupuncture points for neck pain relief and how they work to restore balance and reduce discomfort.
How Does Acupuncture Work for Neck Pain?
Acupuncture is a key component of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) that involves inserting fine, sterile needles into specific points along the body’s energy pathways, or meridians. For chronic neck pain, acupuncture helps to:
Release muscle tension: Stimulating targeted points relaxes tight muscles in the neck and shoulders.
Improve blood circulation: Better blood flow nourishes muscles and tissues, speeding up recovery.
Regulate pain perception: Acupuncture triggers the release of endorphins, the body’s natural painkillers, while reducing inflammation.
Now, let’s explore the acupuncture points most effective for treating chronic neck pain.
Top Acupuncture Points for Neck Pain Relief
Most acupuncture points are found on both sides of the body or bilateral with exception to some points that are found only at the midline of the body. There are other “pain points” or “ashi points” which do not follow any particular pathway. Specific to pain, these are some of the commonly used points.
Gallbladder 20 (GB20) – Feng Chi
• Location: At the base of the skull, in the hollows between the two large neck muscles.
• Benefits: GB20 is one of the most effective points for alleviating neck pain, stiffness, and headaches. It helps reduce tension in the upper neck and improves blood flow to the head and shoulders.
Gallbladder 21 (GB21) – Jian Jing
Location: On the top of the shoulders, halfway between the neck and the outer edge of the shoulder.
Benefits: GB21 releases tension in the trapezius muscles, which are often tight in people with neck pain. It’s also helpful for stress-related discomfort and shoulder pain.
Small Intestine 3 (SI3) – Houxi
Location: On the outer edge of the hand, just below the pinky finger, at the crease where the palm meets the finger.
Benefits: SI3 is a powerful distal point that alleviates neck stiffness and pain radiating to the shoulders and upper back.
Bladder 10 (BL10) – Tian Zhu
Location: At the base of the skull, approximately one finger-width away from the spine on both sides.
Benefits: BL10 relieves neck pain, tension headaches, and dizziness by promoting relaxation and blood flow to the upper spine.
Large Intestine 4 (LI4) – He Gu
Location: In the webbing between the thumb and index finger.
Benefits: Although not directly located on the neck, LI4 is a versatile point that helps reduce pain and inflammation anywhere in the body, including the neck.
Governing Vessel 14 (DU14) – Da Zhui
Location: At the base of the neck, just below the spinous process of the seventh cervical vertebra (the bony bump at the base of your neck).
Benefits: DU14 is excellent for relieving chronic pain, stiffness, and tension in the neck and shoulders. It also helps boost the immune system.
Triple Energizer 15 (SJ15) – Tian Liao
Location: On the upper shoulder, midway between the neck and the outer edge of the shoulder blade.
Benefits: SJ15 eases pain caused by poor posture or muscle overuse in the neck and shoulder region.
Depiction of the referenced points.
What to Expect During an Acupuncture Session
Your acupuncturist will conduct a thorough consultation to understand the root causes of your neck pain. Using fine needles, they’ll stimulate specific points like GB20, GB21, and others discussed above. Most people feel a slight tingling or warmth during treatment.
Sessions typically last 30–60 minutes, and most patients notice relief after just a few treatments. Acupuncture is not only effective for immediate relief but also helps prevent future episodes by promoting relaxation and improving posture.
Combining Acupuncture with Lifestyle Changes
For the best results, combine acupuncture with lifestyle adjustments to prevent neck pain from recurring:
• Ergonomics: Adjust your workspace to maintain proper posture.
• Stretching: Incorporate neck stretches and yoga into your daily routine.
• Mindfulness: Practice stress management techniques like meditation to reduce tension.
• Tech use: Limit screen time and take regular breaks to avoid “tech neck.
Chronic neck pain doesn’t have to be a lifelong burden. By targeting key acupuncture points like GB20, GB21, and SI3, acupuncture offers a natural and effective way to alleviate pain, reduce stress, and enhance your overall quality of life. Whether you’re new to acupuncture or have tried it before, it’s worth exploring this ancient practice as part of your pain management plan.
