Frozen Shoulder: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment in Physiotherapy
Frozen shoulder, also known as adhesive capsulitis, is a condition that affects the shoulder joint, causing pain and stiffness. It occurs when the capsule surrounding the shoulder joint becomes thick and tight, limiting its range of motion. While the exact cause of frozen shoulder is unknown, it is commonly associated with injury or trauma to the shoulder, diabetes, thyroid disorders, and prolonged immobility.
At Al Hanif Physiotherapy and Hijama Centre, we specialize in the treatment of frozen shoulder using a combination of physiotherapy techniques, including exercise therapy, manual therapy, and electrotherapy.
Causes of Frozen Shoulder:
As mentioned, the exact cause of frozen shoulder is unknown, but certain factors can increase the risk of developing the condition. These include:
- Injury or trauma to the shoulder
- Diabetes
- Thyroid disorders
- Prolonged immobility of the shoulder
- Age (most common in people over 40)
- Gender (more common in women)
Symptoms of Frozen Shoulder:
The symptoms of frozen shoulder typically develop gradually and worsen over time. The condition can be divided into three stages:
- Freezing Stage: This stage is characterized by pain and stiffness in the shoulder. The pain may be dull or aching and is often worse at night. As the condition progresses, the range of motion of the shoulder becomes increasingly limited.
- Frozen Stage: During this stage, the pain may begin to decrease, but the stiffness in the shoulder becomes more severe. It may become difficult to perform everyday activities, such as reaching or lifting.
- Thawing Stage: In this final stage, the range of motion in the shoulder begins to improve. However, it may take several months to several years to regain full mobility.
Treatment of Frozen Shoulder in Physiotherapy:
At Al Hanif Physiotherapy and Hijama Centre, our team of experienced physiotherapists use a variety of techniques to treat frozen shoulder. These include:
- Exercise Therapy: Specific exercises are prescribed to improve range of motion and flexibility in the shoulder joint. These exercises are designed to stretch the capsule and surrounding tissues, reducing stiffness and pain.
- Manual Therapy: Manual therapy techniques, such as joint mobilization and soft tissue mobilization, are used to improve joint mobility and reduce pain.
- Electrotherapy: Various electrotherapy modalities, such as ultrasound and TENS, are used to reduce pain and inflammation in the shoulder joint.
- Education and Lifestyle Modifications: Our physiotherapists provide education on proper posture and body mechanics to reduce the risk of developing frozen shoulder. They also offer advice on lifestyle modifications, such as diet and exercise, to improve overall health and prevent future injuries.
In conclusion,
frozen shoulder is a common condition that can cause pain and stiffness in the shoulder joint. At Al Hanif Physiotherapy and Hijama Centre, we offer a range of physiotherapy techniques to help alleviate the symptoms of frozen shoulder and improve overall shoulder function. Our team of experienced physiotherapists is dedicated to providing personalized care and support to help our patients achieve their treatment goals. If you are experiencing shoulder pain or stiffness, please don’t hesitate to contact us to schedule an appointment.
