Frozen Shoulder

Regain your shoulder movement and functionality with comprehensive physical therapy.

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Living With Frozen Shoulder

As a ball and socket joint, the shoulder usually provides a broad range of movement. However, adhesive capsulitis, a condition also known as frozen shoulder, can impede this movement. As the condition worsens, your shoulder’s functionality can reduce significantly.

Living with frozen shoulder can be uncomfortable and difficult. That is why it can be advantageous to seek professional support because intervention has the potential to be beneficial in many cases. Our physiotherapists and exercise physiologists can support you towards improving your frozen shoulder to find relief.

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What is Frozen Shoulder?

Frozen shoulder occurs when the connective tissue capsule that surrounds the shoulder joint tightens, thickens, or becomes inflamed or scarred. This can be a result of injury or issues such as bursitis and tendinitis. The change to the capsule means the shoulder bones can no longer move freely within the joint. The shoulder becomes hard to move and painful.

Stages of Frozen Shoulder

This condition is categorised into three different stages. The distinction is based on the symptoms you are experiencing.

Freezing

In the initial stage, which can take three to nine months, the stiffness and pain in your shoulder increase markedly. Discomfort can be significant in this stage. During this time, vigorous intervention is usually not recommended. Your pharmacist or GP may advise you about your best medication options for pain relief.

Frozen

During the frozen stage, which can last between nine and fifteen months, shoulder movement is significantly reduced, and your range of motion is mostly lost. Towards the end of this stage, the pain may subside. Physical therapy can be beneficial for many during this stage.

Thawing

Stiffness and pain can improve during the thawing stage and your range of motion may become more normal. This can last between fifteen and twenty-four months. Physical therapy is often most useful during this time.

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Frozen Shoulder Symptoms

The primary symptom of frozen shoulder is the loss of movement in the joint. This can affect both active and passive range of motion. This means that not only may you find it difficult to move your shoulder, but someone else may also not be able to move it for you on examination. Pain is also involved for many people. This may be a dull aching pain, which can increase to a sharp pain when moving in certain ways. Many people feel this pain deep in the shoulder, while some deal with pain and/or stiffness in their neck, upper back, or upper arm. Pain at night is a common issue, which can make sleeping difficult.

Frozen Shoulder Treatments

We will assess your symptoms and stage of frozen shoulder and determine the best course of action. Your treatment may include methods such as:

Massage
Strengthening exercises.
Joint mobilisation.
Ultrasound therapy.
Range of motion exercises.
Stretching.
Movement advice.
Clinical Pilates.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What are the risk factors for frozen shoulder?

Frozen shoulder can happen to anyone. However, there are some factors that may increase your likelihood of experiencing this condition. These can include:

Diabetes.
Thyroid disorders.
History of breast or chest surgery.
History of shoulder injury.
Shoulder inactivity.
Shoulder arthritis.

How is frozen shoulder diagnosed?

Physical examination is usually the best way to identify this condition. Your physio will perform a thorough assessment and discuss your symptoms and history with you. Scans are generally not required but may be needed to rule out other conditions.

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Why Choose Ace Allied Health?

Our team is experienced in dealing with frozen shoulder. We understand how detrimental this condition can be to daily life and are committed to assisting you to find relief and improved functionality.

Holistic treatment

Physical therapy has the potential to improve frozen shoulder symptoms significantly without surgery.

Multi-technique approach

By visiting our clinic, you can access a range of treatment options, from physiotherapy to exercise physiology to clinical Pilates.

Personalised treatment

Frozen shoulder presents differently for each person from stage to stage, so a one-size-fits-all approach is not advised. We will tailor your treatment plan to your specific needs and goals.

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Free Up Your Frozen Shoulder at Ace Allied Health

If you are dealing with the symptoms of frozen shoulder, please contact our friendly and experienced team. We can advise you if you are in the stage of this condition most suitable for treatment and organise an initial consultation when suitable.

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Empowering Health and Performance

At Ace Allied Health, your well-being is our priority. No matter your age, stage of life, or lifestyle, we want to help you feel your best! Whether that’s with physiotherapy, exercise physiology, dietetics, or something else, we’re the team in your corner cheering you on to help you reach your goals. Take the first step towards a healthier and happier life by booking an appointment today.