Physiotherapy at Braybrook Physio & Allied Health Clinic Can Help You Get Back to Moving Freely
Frozen shoulder, also known as adhesive capsulitis, is a painful condition that causes stiffness and limited movement in the shoulder joint. The shoulder capsule, which is a connective tissue sac that surrounds the ball-and-socket joint, thickens and tightens, restricting its range of motion.
Causes of Frozen Shoulder
The exact cause of frozen shoulder is unknown, but several factors are considered risk factors, including:
- Diabetes
- Hyperthyroidism
- Parkinson’s disease
- Cardiac disease
- Immobilisation after a fracture or other shoulder injury
- Age (most common in people between 40 and 60 years old)
Symptoms of Frozen Shoulder
The symptoms of frozen shoulder typically develop in three stages:
Painful (Freezing) Phase
- Gradual onset of aching pain in the shoulder
- Worsening pain at night, especially when lying on the affected side
- Difficulty reaching overhead
- Difficulty reaching behind the back
Stiffening (Frozen) Phase
- Significant loss of movement in the shoulder joint
- Difficulty performing everyday tasks
- Pain may decrease, but stiffness becomes more prominent
Thawing Phase
- Gradual improvement in shoulder movement
- Decreased pain
- Full recovery may take up to 1-2 years
Pain Management at Braybrook Physio & Allied Health Clinic
Our experienced physiotherapists offer a variety of treatments to help manage pain and improve shoulder movement, including:
- Soft tissue mobilisation massage: This helps to relax muscles and improve blood flow to the area.
- Dry-needling: This involves inserting thin needles into trigger points in the muscles to relieve pain and muscle tension.
- Shockwave therapy: We utilise this technology to break down scar tissue and promote healing.
Shoulder Capsule Stretches at Braybrook Physio & Allied Health Clinic
Our physiotherapists will guide you through specific stretches to improve shoulder movement and range of motion. These stretches may include:
- Pendulum exercises: These involve swinging the arm in small circles, gradually increasing the range of motion over time.
- Wand exercises: These involve using a dowel rod to move the arm in different directions.
- Capsular stretching: We will guide you through applying gentle pressure to the shoulder joint to stretch the capsule and increase range of motion.
Why Choose Braybrook Physio & Allied Health Clinic for Frozen Shoulder Treatment?
Braybrook Physio & Allied Health Clinic is a team of dedicated and experienced physiotherapists who are passionate about helping people with frozen shoulder get back to living pain-free lives. We offer a comprehensive range of treatment options, tailored to each individual’s needs.
Additional Information:
• The American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons: https://sportsmedicine.mayoclinic.org/news/whats-frozen-shoulder/
• The National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK482162/
Disclaimer:
This information is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Please consult with a healthcare professional for diagnosis and treatment.