Description:
Frozen shoulder is a pathology of the shoulder joint associated with stiffness and reduction in mobility.This condition’s medical term is adhesive capsulitis – inflammation of the shoulder capsule, where bands of tissue called adhesions are formed around it and thicken it. People between the age of 40-65 and women are at an increased risk to develop Frozen shoulder.
Causes:
- Broken arm
- Immobility
- Reduced mobility
- Rotator cuff pathology
- Stroke
- Post-surgery recovery
Symptoms:
The symptoms of this condition develope gradually and they are commonly divided in three stages.
The Freezing stage: The movements of the shoulder begin to cause pain and the range of motion is reduced.
The Frozen stage: The pain becomes more intense and the range of motion is even more limited. The person is less functional and experiences apprehension with shoulder movements.
Thawing stage: The mobility of the shoulder is slowly improving. The strength and function return to normal. The thawing stage can last from 6 months to 3 years.
Physiotherapy for Frozen shoulder:
Physiotherapy can help to restore the motion and strength of the shoulder and additionally to speed up the recovery.
Main physiotherapy protocols include:
- Exercising plan
- Manual therapy
- Lazer therapy
- Shockwave therapy
- Stretches
- Pain relief advice
Have you been diagnosed with Frozen shoulder? Are you experiencing similar symptoms?
Book a free consultation today in one of our clinics discuss it with one of our specialists.
Andreas Ouogko MSc. Chartered Physiotherapist
