Physiotherapy for Frozen Shoulder: How to Restore Movement.
Frozen shoulder, also known as adhesive capsulitis, is a painful and limiting condition that affects the shoulder joint. This condition can make it difficult to move your arm, often leading to stiffness and restricted motion. Fortunately, physiotherapy is one of the most effective treatments for restoring movement in a frozen shoulder. Below are common questions people ask about frozen shoulder and its treatment through physiotherapy.Dr. Ranjeet Ghatge, a highly experienced physiotherapist in Magarpatta, Pune, offers personalized treatment plans to help patients restore mobility.
What is a frozen shoulder, and what causes it?
Frozen shoulder occurs when the tissues surrounding the shoulder joint become inflamed and stiff, leading to pain and reduced movement. The exact cause of frozen shoulder is not always clear, but it is often linked to:
Prolonged immobility (e.g., after surgery or injury)
Diabetes
Thyroid conditions
Aging (commonly affects people between 40-60 years)
Autoimmune conditions
What are the stages of frozen shoulder?
Frozen shoulder typically progresses through three stages:
Freezing Stage: Pain gradually worsens, and shoulder movement becomes restricted.
Frozen Stage: Pain may reduce, but stiffness and limited mobility persist.
Thawing Stage: Mobility begins to improve, and stiffness slowly decreases.
How can physiotherapy help treat frozen shoulder?
Physiotherapy plays a crucial role in managing frozen shoulder by:
Restoring Range of Motion: Specific exercises are used to improve flexibility and mobility in the shoulder.
Reducing Pain: Techniques like heat therapy, ultrasound, and electrical stimulation may be used to alleviate pain.
Strengthening Muscles: Strengthening exercises help improve the shoulder’s function and prevent further injury.
Physiotherapy is crucial for restoring movement in frozen shoulder. Dr. Ranjeet Ghatge, an expert physiotherapist in Magarpatta, Pune, uses targeted exercises and pain-relief techniques to reduce stiffness and improve range of motion. Patients benefit from stretching exercises, strength training, and manual therapy to gradually regain shoulder function.
Stretching Exercises: Targeted stretches help reduce stiffness and increase joint movement.
What types of exercises are recommended for frozen shoulder?
Physiotherapists typically recommend a combination of passive and active exercises, including:
Pendulum Stretch: Lean forward and let the affected arm hang. Gently swing it in circles.
Towel Stretch: Hold a towel behind your back with both hands and gently stretch the affected shoulder.
Cross-Body Stretch: Use the unaffected arm to pull the affected arm across your chest for a gentle stretch.
Wall Walk: Use your fingers to “walk” up a wall, helping to stretch the shoulder joint.
How long does it take to recover from a frozen shoulder with physiotherapy?
With consistent physiotherapy under professionals like Dr. Ranjeet Ghatge, recovery from frozen shoulder typically takes 3-6 months, depending on the severity of the condition and early intervention.
Can frozen shoulder go away without physiotherapy?
While frozen shoulder can eventually resolve on its own, it can take years, and stiffness may remain if the condition is left untreated. Physiotherapy is essential for speeding up the recovery process and minimizing permanent stiffness.
Is frozen shoulder treatment painful?
Some discomfort during exercises and stretches is normal, but physiotherapy is designed to be gradual and gentle. Your physiotherapist will guide you through exercises tailored to your pain tolerance and stage of recovery. Pain relief techniques such as heat or ice therapy may also be incorporated.
When should I seek medical attention for a frozen shoulder?
If you experience shoulder pain that worsens over time, along with limited mobility, you should consult a healthcare professional. Early intervention can prevent the condition from progressing and reduce recovery time. A physiotherapist can assess your shoulder and design a personalized rehabilitation plan.
Can I prevent frozen shoulder from occurring?
Preventing frozen shoulder involves maintaining good shoulder mobility, especially after surgery or injury. Regular stretching and strengthening exercises, as well as addressing any underlying conditions like diabetes, can help reduce the risk. If you’ve had frozen shoulder in one shoulder, keeping up with physiotherapy exercises can prevent recurrence in the other shoulder.
How often should I do physiotherapy exercises for frozen shoulder?
Your physiotherapist will provide you with a structured exercise plan, which typically includes daily stretches and strengthening exercises. Consistency is key to regaining mobility, so it’s important to follow the recommended routine, which may involve at-home exercises as well as in-clinic sessions.
Physiotherapy is a highly effective approach for managing frozen shoulders. With regular stretching, strengthening, and movement-based therapy, patients can restore shoulder function, reduce pain, and regain full mobility. Early treatment and adherence to a physiotherapy plan are critical for faster recovery and minimizing long-term limitations.
