Frozen shoulder, also known as Adhesive Capsulitis, is a condition that affects the shoulder joint, causing stiffness and pain. The shoulder joint has a capsule of connective tissue that surrounds it and holds it in place. When this capsule thickens and tightens, it can restrict movement and cause pain.
The exact cause of frozen shoulder is unknown, but it often occurs after a period of immobilisation or injury to the shoulder. There is an increased risk for people with diabetes or thyroid problems.
The exact cause of frozen shoulder is unknown, but it often occurs after a period of immobilisation or injury to the shoulder. There is an increased risk for people with diabetes or thyroid problems.
Frozen shoulder typically progresses through three stages: freezing, frozen and thawing. During the freezing stage, the shoulder becomes increasingly stiff and painful. In the frozen stage, the pain may decrease, but the stiffness remains. In the thawing stage, the range of motion gradually improves.
Treatment for frozen shoulder may include physiotherapy, pain medication, or corticosteroid injections to reduce inflammation and improve mobility. In some cases, surgery may be necessary.
Physiotherapy for frozen shoulder focuses on gentle, progressive stretching to improve the patient’s range of motion, strengthening to support the joint, and manual techniques to loosen the capsule. The early stages often require pain management with anti-inflammatory medication or corticosteroid injections to reduce swelling and allow more effective exercise.
As mobility improves, more active strengthening and functional training can be added. Consistency with physiotherapy for frozen shoulder is usually the key to gradual recovery, over several months. If symptoms persist, surgery for frozen shoulder may be considered as a last resort.
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