Frozen Shoulder

Physiotherapy for Frozen Shoulder (Adhesive Capsulitis)

Frozen shoulder, also known as adhesive capsulitis, is a condition that causes stiffness, pain, and restricted motion in the shoulder joint. It often develops gradually and can significantly affect your ability to perform daily activities like reaching, dressing, or lifting your arm.

At Rehab8, we understand how frustrating frozen shoulder can be. Our approach focuses on education, movement restoration, and personalized physiotherapy to help you regain comfort and shoulder function.

1. What is Frozen Shoulder?

Frozen shoulder occurs when the capsule surrounding the shoulder joint becomes thickened and tight, leading to restricted movement and pain. The condition typically develops in three stages:

• Freezing Stage: Gradual onset of pain and stiffness. Range of motion becomes limited.
• Frozen Stage: Pain may lessen, but stiffness remains and shoulder movement is significantly restricted.
• Thawing Stage: Slow improvement in motion and function over time.

The full cycle of frozen shoulder can take several months to two years without treatment, though physiotherapy can help accelerate recovery and improve shoulder mobility.
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2. Common Causes and Symptoms

Frozen shoulder can develop gradually and often without a single identifiable injury. It is most often the result of inflammation, immobility, or changes in the soft tissues surrounding the shoulder joint.

Common Causes

• Prolonged Immobilization: Keeping the shoulder still for long periods, such as after surgery, fracture, or injury, can cause the joint capsule to tighten and lose flexibility.
• Inflammation or Injury: Inflammation from tendinitis, bursitis, or rotator cuff injury may lead to secondary stiffness and pain in the joint capsule.
• Systemic Conditions: Health conditions like diabetes, thyroid disorders, or cardiovascular disease increase the risk of developing frozen shoulder.
• Postural Factors: Poor posture or repetitive shoulder strain may contribute to shoulder joint irritation and eventual restriction.
• Idiopathic Onset: In some cases, frozen shoulder develops with no clear cause but follows a predictable pattern of pain and stiffness.

Common Symptoms

• Gradual onset of deep, aching pain in the shoulder and upper arm
• Pain that worsens with movement or at night, especially when lying on the affected side
• Stiffness and difficulty raising the arm or reaching behind the back
• Decreased shoulder mobility that affects dressing, grooming, or reaching overhead
• Pain that may improve over time, but stiffness continues if untreated

Recognizing these early symptoms and seeking physiotherapy can help prevent further stiffness and promote faster recovery.

3. How Physiotherapy Helps Treat Sciatica

Physiotherapy is one of the most effective treatments for frozen shoulder, helping restore mobility, reduce stiffness, and manage pain. At Rehab8, treatment plans are tailored to your stage of recovery and comfort level.

Pain Management and Mobility Restoration

Gentle manual therapy, stretching, and joint mobilizations help reduce pain and improve shoulder motion.

Targeted Exercise Programs

Customized exercises aim to improve flexibility, strength, and control without aggravating pain. We gradually progress your program as movement returns.

Education and Posture Correction

Understanding the condition helps you take an active role in recovery. We also address postural habits that may contribute to shoulder stiffness.

Modalities and Home Strategies

Depending on your symptoms, treatments such as heat, cold, or ultrasound may be used to relieve pain. You’ll also receive a guided home exercise plan to support ongoing progress between sessions.

The goal is to help you regain shoulder mobility safely while preventing secondary stiffness and long-term limitations.

Takeaway

Frozen shoulder can be a slow and painful condition, but with consistent physiotherapy and the right guidance, recovery is possible. At Rehab8, we focus on improving movement, reducing pain, and helping you return to the activities you enjoy with confidence and comfort.