What is frozen shoulder?
Adhesive capsulitis, another name for frozen shoulder, is a painful and incapacitating condition in which the shoulder capsule (the tissue that surrounds the shoulder joint) stiffens up and inflames, severely limiting movement and producing excruciating pain. Typically, signs and symptoms appear gradually, get worse over time, and then go away, generally in a year or two.
If you're recuperating from an injury, your risk of acquiring frozen shoulder increases if you are reecovering from a medical disease or treatment that limits the range of motion in your arm, such as a stroke, recent surgery or an injury. Those who have rheumatoid arthritis or diabetes are at a greater chance of getting this.
How Does Physiotherapy Work for Frozen Shoulder?
Physiotherapy for frozen shoulder begins with an assessment of your shoulder movement, pain, stiffness, strength, and functional limitations. Your physiotherapist will consider how the condition is affecting activities such as reaching, dressing, lifting, or using your arm overhead.
Treatment may include gentle mobility exercises, stretching, strengthening, manual therapy, and guidance on maintaining appropriate movement between appointments. The approach can be adjusted according to your symptoms and the stage of your condition.
Benefits of Physiotherapy for Frozen Shoulder
- Maintain and improve shoulder mobility
- Address stiffness and movement limitations
- Build strength as appropriate
- Improve your ability to perform everyday activities
- Develop strategies for managing shoulder movement
- Progress your rehabilitation according to your individual needs
Take the next step.
Our Scott Road clinic welcomes patients from Guildford, Newton, Scott Road, and North Delta for personalized occupational therapy focused on their individual functional goals. Book online or call 778-590-4243.
