Shoulder Tendonitis

[Crystylline]

Hi

I'm experiencing really acute shoulder tendonitis.

I've been to the physio who gave me a few basic exercises - stretching and advised me to see an Acupuncturist.

She said I can't have ultrasound or use topical creams or take any tablets/steroids etc.

My GP practice won't refer to Acupuncturists, and given I've been recommended that I need at least 3-6 sessions, at £40 an appointment, it's a cost I really can't afford.

Does anyone have any suggestions, treatments or ideas about how to get an NHS referral for Acupuncture?

I'm in exquisite pain and can't sleep for more than 1.5 hours at a time, as the pain wakes me up.

I'm 6 months pregnant, so this coupled with night kicks and endless trips to the loo is making me very tired and more than a little emotional!

Some NHS physios do acupuncture - that's the only way I know of to get acupuncture on the NHS.

I find specialist massage helpful, but that's something else you have to pay for.

Although you probably can't take any anti-inflammtories, you can still take paracetamol - and codeine if okayed by your doc - so I'd get some pain relief to help you sleep.

thanks Japhrimel.

Paracetamol doesn't seem to touch it, but codeine might.

I just find it frustrating that I'm having to pay for services that i think should be available on the NHS, especially when it's the NHS that's recommending them! meh.