Frozen Shoulder

What is Frozen Shoulder?

Frozen shoulder, also known as adhesive capsulitis, is a condition that causes pain and stiffness in your shoulder joint. Over time, the shoulder becomes very hard to move. The condition occurs when the connective tissue (capsule) surrounding the shoulder joint thickens and tightens, restricting its movement.

The Three Stages of Frozen Shoulder

Frozen shoulder typically develops slowly, and in three stages. Each stage can last a number of months:

• Freezing Stage: Any movement of your shoulder causes pain, and your shoulder's range of motion starts to become limited. This stage can last from 6 weeks to 9 months.
• Frozen Stage: Pain may begin to diminish during this stage. However, your shoulder becomes stiffer, and using it becomes more difficult. This stage can last 4 to 6 months.
• Thawing Stage: The range of motion in your shoulder begins to improve. This stage can take anywhere from 6 months to 2 years.

Treatment Options

Treatment for frozen shoulder focuses on controlling pain and restoring motion. Options include:

• Physical Therapy: Specific stretching and range-of-motion exercises to help restore mobility.
• Medications: Over-the-counter pain relievers and anti-inflammatory drugs.
• Corticosteroid Injections: Injected directly into the shoulder joint to decrease pain and improve mobility.
• Manual Therapy: Gentle mobilisation and massage to help loosen the tight capsule and surrounding muscles.