Frozen Shoulder (Optimal Physiotherapy Management)
Frozen shoulder (sometimes referred to as adhesive capsulitis) is a condition which causes a gradual onset of pain and progressive stiffness/ loss of shoulder movement. The cause of the pain and stiffness is an inflammation of the shoulder soft tissue capsule which under normal circumstances is flexible but when inflamed produces stiffer, tougher, scar tissue which limits the shoulder movements. A true Frozen Shoulder is not related to age related changes or trauma to the shoulder joint. The underlying cause may be not known (idiopathic) or related to metabolic problems disorders such as Diabetes or Thyroid problems. It is more common in females between the ages of 45 – 60. A typical Frozen Shoulder will go through 3 distinct stages: Stage one (pain dominant Frozen Shoulder); Stage two (stiffness dominant Frozen Shoulder); Stage three (“thawing” stage where symptoms improve).
This video gives an insight into the most effective physiotherapy exercises at each stage of a Frozen Shoulder with dialogue from our professional physiotherapist.