Frozen shoulder is a debilitating shoulder condition that results in stiffness and pain in the shoulder joint. The medical term for this condition is known as adhesive capsulitis. The cause of frozen shoulder is unknown but doctors hypothesize it can be due to trauma or prolonged immobilization to the shoulder joint. This condition typically affects women over 40 years old. Adhesive capsulitis occurs when there is less than 25% of shoulder movement in at least 2 directions. For example, only able to lift the shoulder 25% of the way upwards and to the side. Bones, ligaments and tendons make up the shoulder joint and are encased in a capsule. The capsule can thicken which causes pain and restricted shoulder range of motion.
Signs and symptoms:
There are 3 stages of frozen shoulder:
Freezing: This is the initial stage of frozen shoulder, the shoulder starts to ache and become stiff. This is a very painful stage of frozen shoulder and most treatment is aimed at decreasing the pain instead of working on the stiffness. People with this condition have issues with lifting their arm up and to the side. You may find it difficult to reach for items on the top shelf. This stage can last anywhere between 2 to 9 months.
Frozen: This is the second stage of frozen shoulder, pain is often reduced and stiffness is the main issue. You may feel that your shoulder muscles are weak because you have not been able to use it. This stage can last anywhere between 4 months to 1 year.
Thawing: This is the final stage of frozen shoulder, both pain and stiffness are beginning to subside. You may notice gradual restoration of shoulder movement and function. This stage can last anywhere between 5 months to 3 years.
Treatment:
The type of physiotherapy treatment will depend on the stage of frozen shoulder. Graded strengthening and stretching exercises are usually prescribed by a physiotherapist to help you restore your shoulder movement. Our physiotherapists will also provide some gentle mobilisation technique to help restore shoulder range of motion. Massage techniques are also performed to help alleviate pain. Corticosteroid injections can also be used to provide short-term symptomatic relief. Physiotherapy is an effective treatment option for symptomatic relief and can help hasten the recovery for this condition. If you have shoulder pain or stiffness, contact one of our expert physiotherapists today for a detailed treatment plan. Follow us on Instagram for physiotherapy tips on how to manage your shoulder condition.