Frozen Shoulder: How Physiotherapy Can Help You Regain Mobility and Reduce Pain
Frozen shoulder, medically known as adhesive capsulitis, is a frustrating condition that causes stiffness, pain and limited movement in the shoulder joint. It can severely impact your daily life — from reaching overhead to simply getting dressed. While the exact cause is often unclear and the condition can develop after injury or even without warning, physiotherapy remains the most effective way to restore shoulder function and reduce discomfort.
What Is Frozen Shoulder?
Frozen shoulder occurs when the capsule surrounding the shoulder joint becomes inflamed and thickened, leading to restricted movement. The condition typically progresses through three distinct stages:
Freezing Stage: This initial phase lasts several months and involves significant pain and a decreasing range of motion.
Frozen Stage: Pain may lessen, but stiffness and limited movement persist, making daily tasks difficult.
Thawing Stage: Over six months to two years, mobility gradually improves, allowing for better shoulder function.
Understanding these stages highlights why early treatment is vital to prevent long-term stiffness and discomfort.
Signs and Symptoms of Frozen Shoulder
Common symptoms include:
Persistent Shoulder Pain: Often dull or aching, sometimes radiating down the arm.
Severe Stiffness: Difficulty reaching overhead, behind your back or performing routine movements.
Sleep Disturbances: Finding a comfortable sleeping position can be tough, leading to fatigue.
Recognising symptoms early means you can start effective treatment sooner and avoid progression.
What Causes Frozen Shoulder? Key Risk Factors
While the precise cause is unclear, frozen shoulder often develops after:
Injury or Surgery: Approximately 20% of people who have shoulder surgery experience frozen shoulder.
Age and Gender: Most common between ages 40-60, with women three times more likely to be affected.
Underlying Health Issues: Diabetes, thyroid problems and cardiovascular conditions increase risk.
Knowing these risk factors helps you take proactive steps to protect your shoulder health.
How Physiotherapy Helps Frozen Shoulder
Physiotherapy plays a critical role in managing frozen shoulder by reducing pain and restoring movement through:
Comprehensive Assessment: Your physiotherapist evaluates your pain levels and mobility restrictions to create a personalised treatment plan.
Manual Therapy: Gentle mobilisation and manipulation techniques improve shoulder flexibility and reduce stiffness.
Targeted Exercise Programs: Consistent stretching and strengthening exercises can improve shoulder mobility by up to 60% within three months.
Patient Education: Learning about your condition and recovery process empowers you to actively participate and manage your symptoms.
Effective Exercises for Frozen Shoulder Recovery
Including these gentle exercises can accelerate your recovery:
Pendulum Exercise: Let your arm swing gently in circles to loosen the joint without strain.
Towel Stretch: Use a towel to gently pull your affected arm behind your back, improving flexibility.
Cross-Arm Stretch: Pull one arm across your chest to stretch shoulder muscles and increase range of motion.
Always perform exercises pain-free and under professional guidance to avoid aggravating symptoms.
Benefits of Physiotherapy for Frozen Shoulder
Working with a physiotherapist offers numerous benefits:
Significant Pain Relief: Manual therapy combined with exercise eases discomfort and supports healing.
Improved Range of Motion: Many patients regain up to 90% of shoulder mobility with regular physiotherapy.
Prevention of Chronic Issues: Early treatment reduces the risk of long-term complications.
Patient Empowerment: Education fosters confidence and motivation to stick with rehab.
Take the Next Step Towards Shoulder Health
Frozen shoulder can be challenging but with dedicated physiotherapy, recovery is achievable. If you notice shoulder pain or stiffness impacting your daily life, don’t wait. Early intervention can speed up healing and restore your quality of life.
At Bodhiworks Physiotherapy in Prahran, we specialise in tailored treatment plans that guide you through every step of your recovery.
Book your consultation today and start regaining pain-free shoulder movement!
