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Adhesive Capsulitis or Frozen Shoulder

Osteopathy Braybrook

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.