Effective Physiotherapy for Frozen Shoulder

Frozen shoulder

If you’re one of the many individuals suffering from a frozen shoulder, also known as adhesive capsulitis, physiotherapy may hold the key to your recovery. This condition, characterized by severe pain and limited mobility in the shoulder joint, can greatly impact your daily life. Fortunately, physiotherapy offers an effective approach to relieving pain and restoring movement in frozen shoulders. In this article, we will delve into the stages of a frozen shoulder and highlight the benefits of physiotherapy as a treatment option.

Understanding Frozen Shoulder:

Frozen shoulder occurs when the shoulder capsule thickens, causing stiffness and tightness in the joint. The formation of adhesions, which are thick bands of tissue, further exacerbates the condition, often accompanied by a decrease in synovial fluid. It is important to distinguish frozen shoulder from a rotator cuff injury, as they require different treatment approaches. A frozen shoulder is characterized by severe pain, loss of shoulder function, and stiffness.

The Three Stages of Frozen Shoulder:

1. Freezing Phase:

During the freezing phase, individuals experience intense shoulder pain and stiffness, resembling the process of freezing and solidification. This initial stage typically lasts between 3 to 9 months. While aggressive treatments are not recommended at this point, pain relief measures such as anti-inflammatory medication can provide temporary relief.

2. Frozen Phase:

The frozen phase is marked by the peak stiffness in the shoulder joint. Although the transition from stage 1 to stage 2 can be painful, the key characteristic of this phase is the inability to move the shoulder until the pain subsides, usually in the late stage. Stage 2 can persist for approximately 9 to 15 months. Physiotherapy plays a crucial role in improving the range of motion during this stage, often allowing the discontinuation of pain relief treatments.

3. Thawing Phase:

The thawing phase, the third and final stage of a frozen shoulder, represents the gradual decrease in stiffness and pain. This stage is akin to the melting of an ice cube. Over a span of 15 to 24 months, the range of motion in the shoulder gradually returns, and the frozen shoulder begins to “thaw.” Physiotherapy is particularly effective during stage 3, expediting the recovery process.

Benefiting from Physiotherapy:

The complete journey through all three stages of frozen shoulder can take an average of 30 months. However, physiotherapy can significantly expedite the recovery process, especially during the later stages. With the expertise of a physiotherapist, patients can experience improved range of motion, reduced pain, and enhanced shoulder function. Physiotherapy treatments may include hands-on care, patient education, and prescribed movement exercises tailored to individual needs.

If you’re experiencing the pain and limitations of a frozen shoulder, physiotherapy on Brisbane’s Northside offers a reliable solution. Understanding the stages of frozen shoulder and the benefits of physiotherapy can empower you to take control of your recovery journey. By seeking professional guidance and personalized treatment, you can alleviate pain, restore mobility, and regain a better quality of life.