Frozen shoulder, also known as adhesive capsulitis, is a painful and restrictive condition that affects the shoulder joint. It typically develops gradually and can significantly limit everyday activities such as dressing, reaching overhead, or sleeping comfortably.
At iPersonal Physiotherapy, we provide specialist assessment and treatment for frozen shoulder, helping to reduce pain, improve movement, and guide you safely through recovery. Our personalised approach ensures treatment is tailored to your stage of recovery and individual goals.
What Is Frozen Shoulder?
Frozen shoulder occurs when the capsule surrounding the shoulder joint becomes inflamed and stiff, leading to pain and progressive loss of movement. The condition usually develops in three stages:
1️⃣ Freezing Stage
Increasing pain and gradual loss of movement.
2️⃣ Frozen Stage
Pain may begin to settle, but stiffness remains significant.
3️⃣ Thawing Stage
Movement slowly begins to return over time.
Frozen shoulder often resolves gradually, but without appropriate management, it can last many months or even years.
Who Is Most Commonly Affected?
Frozen shoulder is more common in:
Adults between 40 and 60 years of age
Individuals with diabetes
People recovering from shoulder injury or surgery
Those who have had prolonged shoulder immobilisation
Early physiotherapy intervention can help manage symptoms more effectively and reduce long-term stiffness.
Common Symptoms of Frozen Shoulder
Gradual onset shoulder pain
Difficulty lifting the arm overhead
Pain when reaching behind the back
Night pain, particularly when lying on the affected side
Significant stiffness and restricted range of motion
If you are experiencing these symptoms, professional assessment can help confirm the diagnosis and guide appropriate treatment.
How Does Physiotherapy Help Frozen Shoulder?
Physiotherapy plays an important role in managing frozen shoulder by reducing pain and restoring movement safely.
Manual Therapy
Gentle joint mobilisation techniques may help improve mobility and reduce discomfort, particularly when applied appropriately to the stage of the condition.
Targeted Exercise Programme
A personalised exercise plan is essential and may include:
Controlled stretching exercises
Range-of-motion activities
Gradual strengthening exercises
Exercises are progressed carefully to avoid aggravating symptoms.
Pain Management Strategies
Advice on positioning, activity modification, and pain-relief techniques can help manage discomfort, especially during the more painful stages.
Education
Understanding the stages of frozen shoulder is important. Education provides reassurance, sets realistic expectations, and supports consistent recovery.
How Long Does Recovery Take?
Frozen shoulder can take time to resolve, often several months. However, structured physiotherapy can:
Improve comfort
Support safe movement
Maintain shoulder function
Reduce secondary problems such as muscle weakness
Every individual’s recovery timeline is different, and treatment is adjusted accordingly.
Regain Shoulder Movement and Confidence
Although frozen shoulder can be frustrating and limiting, most people recover well with appropriate management. A personalised physiotherapy plan can help you navigate each stage safely and confidently.
Book Your Frozen Shoulder Assessment Today
If you are experiencing shoulder pain or stiffness that may be frozen shoulder, iPersonal Physiotherapy is here to help. Book your appointment today and start your guided recovery journey.