Agape Physio can treat...

Frozen Shoulder (Adhesive Capsulitis)

Frozen shoulder is a condition causing stiffness and pain in the shoulder joint. Learn about its stages and therapeutic exercises for mobility restoration.

About this condition

Adhesive capsulitis, commonly known as frozen shoulder, is a condition characterised by stiffness and pain in the shoulder joint. It typically develops gradually, worsens over time, and then resolves, often taking 1 to 3 years. The exact cause isn’t fully understood, but it can occur after a shoulder injury, surgery, or prolonged immobility. It involves thickening and tightening of the shoulder capsule, the connective tissue surrounding the shoulder joint.

What you may be feeling

Patients with frozen shoulder experience a wide range of symptoms, which typically progress through three stages:

Freezing stage: The shoulder becomes increasingly painful, and its range of motion starts to become limited.
Frozen stage: Pain may begin to diminish during this stage, but the shoulder becomes more stiff, and using it becomes more difficult.
Thawing stage: The range of motion in the shoulder begins to improve. During the course of the condition, patients may find it difficult to perform routine activities, such as dressing or reaching overhead, due to pain and limited mobility.

How we can help you

Pain Management

Modalities like heat or ice and TENS (Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation) can be used to manage pain.

Manual Therapy

Techniques such as joint mobilizations to help decrease joint stiffness and improve range of motion.

Exercise Therapy

Graduated stretching and strengthening exercises tailored to the patient’s current stage of the condition. These exercises aim to restore mobility, improve function, and reduce pain.

Education

Advice on activity modification to manage pain and maintain as much movement as possible. Guidance on the natural progression of the condition and setting realistic expectations for recovery.

Home Exercise Programs

Providing patients with a customized home exercise program is crucial for continuous improvement and to prevent future recurrences.

So, what next?

Effective management of frozen shoulder through physiotherapy focuses on minimising joint damage, maintaining range of motion, and gradually restoring function, with an emphasis on patient education and self-management strategies.

First time at Agape Physio? Book a free 15 minute video consult.