How Physical Therapy Can Help Alleviate the Pain and Stiffness of Frozen Shoulder

What is Frozen Shoulder?

Frozen shoulder, also called adhesive capsulitis, is a condition that causes pain and stiffness in the shoulder joint. Many people between ages 40 and 60 develop this problem. In fact, women are more likely to get frozen shoulder than men. The condition can make daily tasks, like reaching or lifting, very hard. Although it often starts slowly, frozen shoulder can last for months or even years. Early treatment, such as physiotherapy for frozen shoulder, can help improve movement and reduce pain. According to the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, frozen shoulder affects about 2% of the general population.

Common Symptoms of Frozen Shoulder

Frozen shoulder symptoms usually develop in three stages. Each stage can last several months. However, the main signs are similar for most people. Recognizing these symptoms early can help you seek treatment sooner.

Pain in the shoulder, especially at night or with movement

Stiffness that makes it hard to move the arm

Limited range of motion in the shoulder

Difficulty doing daily activities, like dressing or reaching overhead

Weakness in the shoulder muscles due to less use

As the condition progresses, pain may decrease, but stiffness often remains. Eventually, movement may slowly return, but full recovery can take time.

Causes and Risk Factors

Doctors do not always know the exact cause of frozen shoulder. However, some factors can increase your risk. For example, the condition often develops after an injury or surgery that keeps the arm still for a long time. In addition, certain health problems can raise the risk.

Diabetes (people with diabetes are more likely to get frozen shoulder)

Thyroid problems (both overactive and underactive thyroid)

Shoulder injuries or surgery

Prolonged immobility due to stroke or illness

Age (most common between 40 and 60 years)

Gender (women are affected more often than men)

Sometimes, frozen shoulder develops without any clear reason. Still, knowing the risk factors can help you take steps to prevent it.

How Frozen Shoulder is Diagnosed

Doctors use several steps to diagnose frozen shoulder. First, they will ask about your symptoms and medical history. Next, they will check your shoulder movement and pain levels. Often, a physical exam is enough to make the diagnosis. However, your doctor may order imaging tests, such as X-rays or MRI scans, to rule out other problems. These tests help ensure there are no bone or joint issues causing your symptoms. Early diagnosis is important because it allows for quicker treatment and better results.

Physiotherapy and Other Treatment Options

Physiotherapy for frozen shoulder is the main treatment. It helps improve movement and reduce pain. A trained physiotherapist will teach you gentle stretching and strengthening exercises. Over time, these exercises can help restore shoulder function. In addition, other treatments may be used to manage pain and speed up recovery.

Physical therapy exercises (stretching, range-of-motion, and strengthening)

Heat or cold packs to reduce pain and swelling

Pain relief medicines, such as acetaminophen or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)

Corticosteroid injections to lower inflammation (in some cases)

Hydrodilatation (a procedure where fluid is injected to stretch the joint capsule)

Surgery (rarely needed, only if other treatments do not help)

Most people improve with non-surgical treatments. However, it is important to follow your physiotherapist’s advice and keep doing the exercises at home.

Home Care and Lifestyle Tips

Along with physiotherapy, home care plays a key role in recovery. Simple steps can help you manage pain and improve movement. For example, you can use a warm towel or heating pad on your shoulder before exercises. This helps relax the muscles. In addition, try to stay active and avoid keeping your arm still for long periods.

Do gentle stretching exercises every day

Apply heat or cold packs as needed

Maintain good posture to reduce strain

Avoid heavy lifting or sudden movements

Follow your physiotherapist’s instructions closely

Remember, recovery takes time. However, staying consistent with your exercises can make a big difference.

Prevention Strategies

While not all cases of frozen shoulder can be prevented, some steps may lower your risk. Early movement after an injury or surgery is important. If you have diabetes or thyroid problems, managing these conditions can also help. In addition, regular shoulder exercises can keep your joint flexible.

Start gentle shoulder movements soon after injury or surgery (with your doctor’s approval)

Control blood sugar if you have diabetes

Stay active and avoid long periods of immobility

See a doctor if you notice shoulder pain or stiffness that does not improve

By taking these steps, you can help protect your shoulder health and reduce the risk of frozen shoulder.

If you have shoulder pain or stiffness, do not wait. Consult a physiotherapist or healthcare provider for personalized advice on managing frozen shoulder.