Understanding and Managing frozen shoulder

A frozen shoulder, or adhesive capsulitis, is a condition that causes pain, stiffness, and restricted movement in the shoulder joint. It develops gradually, often worsening over time before eventually improving. While the exact cause isn’t always clear, it commonly occurs after prolonged immobilization, injury, or underlying health conditions.

At Stellar Physio, we understand how frustrating shoulder stiffness can be limiting daily activities and affecting quality of life. With specialized physiotherapy treatments, we help patients restore mobility, reduce pain, and regain control of their movement.

Understanding Frozen Shoulder

Frozen shoulder progresses through three stages:

🔹 Freezing Stage – Gradual onset of pain and increasing stiffness, making shoulder movement difficult.

🔹 Frozen Stage – Pain may subside, but stiffness becomes severe, restricting mobility.

🔹 Thawing Stage – Gradual improvement as the shoulder regains flexibility and range of motion.

Without proper intervention, a frozen shoulder can take months or even years to fully resolve. However, targeted physiotherapy treatments can significantly accelerate recovery.

What Causes Frozen Shoulder?

Frozen shoulder is often linked to inflammation of the shoulder joint capsule, which leads to thickening and tightening of the tissues. Common risk factors include:

✅ Prolonged immobilization – Following injury, surgery, or conditions that limit arm movement.

✅ Diabetes & metabolic conditions – People with diabetes have a higher risk due to altered tissue healing responses.

✅ Poor posture & repetitive strain – Constant shoulder tension or incorrect movement patterns may contribute to stiffness.

✅ Age & gender – More prevalent in individuals over 40, with women at higher risk.

✅ Previous shoulder injuries – Trauma such as rotator cuff tears or fractures can lead to capsule adhesions.

How Physiotherapy Helps

At Stellar Physio, our comprehensive physiotherapy approach is designed to reduce pain, restore movement, and prevent long-term mobility restrictions. Treatments include:

Manual Therapy & Soft Tissue Mobilization – Improves circulation and flexibility in stiff shoulder tissues.  Stretching & Strengthening Exercises – Customized movement plans target restricted areas while rebuilding strength. Pain Management Techniques – Heat therapy, ultrasound therapy, and dry needling help relieve discomfort and improve healing. Postural Training & Biomechanical Correction – Prevents excessive strain and promotes proper shoulder mechanics. Progressive Range-of-Motion Therapy – Gradually reintroduces shoulder movement without risking further injury.

Preventing & Managing Frozen Shoulder

To prevent frozen shoulder or aid in recovery:

✔️ Stay active – Avoid prolonged immobilization whenever possible.

✔️ Stretch regularly – Maintain shoulder mobility with gentle movement routines.

✔️ Maintain good posture – Reduce tension by improving ergonomic positioning.

✔️ Seek physiotherapy early – Don’t ignore stiffness—early intervention prevents severe restrictions.

Conclusion

Frozen shoulder can be painful and limiting, but recovery is possible with targeted physiotherapy interventions. At Stellar Physio, we create personalized treatment plans designed to improve mobility, reduce pain, and support long-term healing.Let Stellar Physio help you regain movement—schedule a physiotherapy session today!