Frozen Shoulder

What is a frozen shoulder?

Also known as adhesive capsulitis, frozen shoulder is characterized by stiffness and pain in the shoulder joints. Signs and symptoms worsen over time and usually resolve within one to three years. 

 

Causes of a frozen shoulder:

  • Those who have had prolonged reduced mobility of the shoulder from:
    • Rotator cuff injury
    • Broken arm
    • Stroke
    • Recovery from surgery
  • Those who have certain diseases:
    • Diabetes
    • Overactive thyroid (hyperthyroidism)
    • Underactive thyroid (hypothyroidism)
    • Cardiovascular disease
    • Tuberculosis
    • Parkinson’s disease

What does Frozen Shoulder feel like?

Symptoms of a frozen shoulder:

  • Freezing stage: Any movement of the shoulder causes pain, and movement starts to become limited.
  • Frozen stage: Pain may begin to diminish, however, the shoulders become stiffer.
  • Thawing stage: Range of motion in the shoulder begins to improve.

 

How can Frozen Shoulder be managed?

Treatment options include:

  • Acupuncture 
  • Dry needling 
  • ART
  • Electrical Stimulation 
  • Laser therapy for pain
  • Manual therapy 
  • Joint mobilisation
  • Rehabilitation exercises 
  • TENS