Top 5 Overuse Injuries in Hawaii

Living in Hawaii means moving your body often — hiking, surfing, paddling, golfing, yoga, and long workdays on your feet are all part of island life. But repetitive motion without enough recovery can quietly lead to chronic pain and stubborn injuries known as overuse injuries.

Here are the five most common overuse injuries we see in Hawaii — and how acupuncture helps you heal faster and stay active longer.

1. Tennis Elbow

(Lateral Epicondylitis)

Common in: Golfers, paddlers, surfers, gym workouts

Feels like: Burning pain on the outside of the elbow, weak grip

How acupuncture helps:

• Reduces inflammation

• Relaxes overworked forearm muscles

• Increases circulation for faster tissue repair

2. Plantar Fasciitis

Common in: Long walking, barefoot lifestyle, retail & hospitality workers

Feels like: Sharp heel pain, worst in the morning

How acupuncture helps:

• Breaks the pain-spasm cycle

• Promotes tissue regeneration

• Improves foot biomechanics and mobility

3. Runner’s Knee

(Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome)

Common in: Runners, hikers, HIIT training

Feels like: Aching around or behind the kneecap

How acupuncture helps:

• Reduces joint swelling

• Balances muscle tension in hips and thighs

• Improves knee alignment and stability

4. Rotator Cuff Strain

Common in: Surfing, paddling, lifting, swimming

Feels like: Shoulder weakness, pain with overhead movement

How acupuncture helps:

• Relieves deep muscle tightness

• Restores shoulder mobility

• Speeds tendon healing

5. Shin Splints

Common in: Runners, military, bootcamp workouts

Feels like: Tender, aching shins during activity

How acupuncture helps:

• Improves blood flow to stressed bone tissue

• Reduces inflammation

• Prevents progression into stress fractures

Why Acupuncture Speeds Recovery

Acupuncture doesn’t just “mask” pain — it activates your body’s healing response by:

• Increasing circulation

• Reducing inflammation naturally

• Relaxing tight muscle patterns

• Supporting nerve and tissue repair

  
  

Many patients notice faster recovery, fewer flare-ups, and longer performance longevity with regular care.

Ready to move pain-free again?

Zen Attitude Acupuncture Hawaii specializes in sports recovery, injury prevention, and active lifestyle care.

Book your personalized treatment today.