Frozen Shoulder and Its Impact

Frozen shoulder, also known as adhesive capsulitis, is a condition characterized by stiffness and pain in the shoulder joint. This condition often develops gradually, causing significant discomfort and limiting the range of motion. Over time, the shoulder becomes difficult to move, affecting daily tasks like dressing, reaching overhead, or even driving. Frozen shoulder can significantly impact a person’s quality of life if not addressed promptly.

While the exact cause is not always clear, several factors may increase the risk, including injury, immobility due to other conditions, or previous shoulder surgery. Frozen shoulder tends to affect individuals between the ages of 40 and 60 and is more common in women than men.

Symptoms of Frozen Shoulder

The primary symptom of frozen shoulder is severe shoulder pain, which worsens as the condition progresses. The stiffness in the shoulder joint makes it difficult to perform everyday activities that require arm movement. The condition typically develops in three stages:

• Freezing Stage: This is the initial phase, during which pain gradually increases, and the shoulder’s range of motion begins to decrease. This phase can last from 6 weeks to 9 months.
• Frozen Stage: The pain may decrease, but the stiffness worsens, significantly limiting the shoulder’s mobility. Everyday activities become challenging as the shoulder remains locked in a limited position. This phase can last from 4 to 6 months.
• Thawing Stage: During this final phase, the stiffness starts to improve, and the shoulder gradually returns to its normal range of motion. This phase can take up to 12 months or more for full recovery.

Other symptoms include pain when reaching or lifting the arm, difficulty moving the arm behind the back, and pain at night, especially when trying to sleep on the affected shoulder.

Causes and Risk Factors

The exact cause of frozen shoulder remains unknown, but several factors can contribute to its development:

• Immobility: Prolonged immobility due to injury or surgery, such as a rotator cuff injury or stroke, can increase the risk of frozen shoulder.
• Chronic Conditions: People with diabetes, thyroid disorders, or cardiovascular disease are at a higher risk for developing frozen shoulder.
• Previous Shoulder Injury: If the shoulder joint has been previously injured, the likelihood of developing frozen shoulder increases.

Frozen shoulder can also occur without any known cause, making it a mysterious and often frustrating condition.

Treatment Options for Frozen Shoulder

Treatment for frozen shoulder is aimed at relieving pain, improving mobility, and restoring function to the joint. It typically involves a combination of therapies designed to address both the pain and the stiffness in the shoulder.

Physiotherapy for Shoulder Mobility

Physiotherapy is one of the most effective treatments for frozen shoulder. It includes a variety of techniques aimed at reducing pain, increasing the range of motion, and strengthening the muscles surrounding the shoulder. Manual therapy and stretching exercises are often used to help mobilize the joint and improve movement.

Massage Therapy for Pain and Tension

Massage therapy can help alleviate muscle tension and relieve pain around the shoulder joint. By improving circulation and reducing stiffness, massage can also aid in reducing inflammation in the shoulder area, contributing to overall recovery.

Acupuncture for Pain Relief

Acupuncture can help manage the pain associated with frozen shoulder by stimulating specific points on the body. This therapy promotes the release of endorphins, which act as natural painkillers, providing relief and supporting the body’s healing processes.

Custom Orthotics for Joint Support

While orthotics are commonly used for foot and ankle issues, custom orthotics can sometimes be recommended for individuals experiencing shoulder pain linked to posture. These devices support proper alignment, which can alleviate strain on the shoulder joint.

Pelvic Floor Physiotherapy for Postural Alignment

In cases where postural issues contribute to shoulder pain, pelvic floor physiotherapy may be beneficial. Strengthening the core and pelvic floor muscles can improve overall posture and reduce strain on the shoulder joint, aiding in the recovery from frozen shoulder.

Self-Care Strategies for Frozen Shoulder

In addition to professional treatment, there are several self-care strategies that can help alleviate symptoms:

• Heat and Ice Therapy: Applying heat or cold to the shoulder can reduce inflammation and alleviate pain.
• Gentle Stretching: Perform stretching exercises to maintain flexibility and prevent further stiffness.
• Maintain Good Posture: Proper posture can help reduce unnecessary stress on the shoulder joint.
• Rest and Avoid Overuse: While mobility exercises are important, it’s essential to avoid overusing the shoulder, especially during the early stages of treatment.

Why Choose Us for Your Frozen Shoulder Treatment

At our clinic, we specialize in treating frozen shoulder using a combination of proven therapies. Our physiotherapy services focus on restoring movement, while massage therapy, acupuncture, and custom orthotics address pain relief and support recovery. We work closely with you to develop a personalized treatment plan that fits your unique needs and goals.

Contact us today to begin your recovery journey and regain full shoulder mobility. Let us help you move better, feel better, and get back to doing what you love.