Frozen shoulder, also known as adhesive capsulitis, is a condition characterized by pain and stiffness in the shoulder joint. It typically develops gradually and can significantly impair shoulder movement and function. At Focus Physiotherapy, we are expertly trained to diagnose and treat frozen shoulder using advanced physiotherapy techniques. In this blog post, we’ll delve into the symptoms, causes, and how physiotherapy can help individuals recover from frozen shoulder.
Symptoms of Frozen Shoulder
- Pain: Persistent pain in the shoulder, often worsened at night or with movement.
- Stiffness: Gradual loss of shoulder movement, making it difficult to perform everyday tasks.
Limited Range of Motion: Difficulty reaching overhead, behind the back, or across the body. - Progressive Symptoms: Symptoms typically develop in three stages – freezing (increasing pain and stiffness), frozen (severe stiffness with reduced pain), and thawing (gradual improvement in movement).
Common Causes of Frozen Shoulder
- Idiopathic: In many cases, the exact cause is unknown (idiopathic), but it often occurs following a period of immobility or injury that restricts shoulder movement.
- Secondary Causes: Conditions such as diabetes, thyroid disorders, cardiovascular disease, and prolonged immobilization after surgery or injury can increase the risk of developing frozen shoulder.
How Physiotherapy Can Help
- Early Intervention: Prompt physiotherapy intervention can prevent worsening of symptoms and facilitate faster recovery.
- Pain Management: Techniques such as manual therapy, soft tissue mobilization, and modalities like heat or ice therapy help alleviate pain and reduce inflammation in the shoulder joint.
- Gentle Mobilization: Gradual mobilization techniques to stretch and release tight shoulder tissues, improving flexibility and reducing stiffness.
- Joint Mobilization: Specific techniques to restore normal joint mechanics and improve shoulder mobility.
- Strengthening Exercises: Progressive exercises to strengthen the muscles surrounding the shoulder joint, improving stability and supporting the shoulder during movement.
- Stretching Exercises: Targeted stretches to improve flexibility and restore range of motion in the shoulder.
Benefits of Physiotherapy for Frozen Shoulder
- Non-Surgical Approach: Physiotherapy is often effective in treating frozen shoulder without the need for surgery.
- Customized Treatment Plans: Each treatment plan is personalized to address the specific stage and severity of frozen shoulder, as well as the individual needs and goals of the patient.
- Patient Education: Guidance on home exercises, posture correction, and ergonomic modifications to support recovery and prevent recurrence.
- Functional Rehabilitation: Focus on functional exercises to improve daily activities and restore shoulder function.
Conclusion
At Focus Physiotherapy, we are dedicated to help you recover from frozen shoulder and regain pain-free shoulder mobility so you can get back to doing what you love. Contact us today at 780-388-0378 to schedule an appointment.