Acupuncture Therapy for Frozen Shoulder Research supports that acupuncture is effective in managing symptoms of frozen shoulder by enhancing function and reducing pain. It's a non-invasive option that can be used alone or alongside other therapies. Many cases of shoulder pain are a result of tight muscles that form pain patterns. These are called trigger points and can be resolved by releasing the tight band of muscle causing the pain with an acupuncture needle. Below is a list of the trigger points that are usually involved in different types of shoulder pain.