Frozen Shoulder

 

What is Frozen Shoulder?

Adhesive capsulitis, commonly known as frozen shoulder, is a condition that causes stiffness, pain, and a significant reduction in shoulder mobility. It is an inflammatory disorder that can severely impact daily activities, making even simple movements like reaching for an object or getting dressed difficult. The exact cause of frozen shoulder remains unknown however there are factors that contribute to the condition or make people more susceptible.

 

There are 3 stages of Adhesive Capsulitis (frozen shoulder)

  1. Freezing stage: during this initial phase, any movements of the shoulder cause significant pain, and the range of motion gradually decreases. As the inflammation becomes worse in the shoulder, the ability to do simple movements and activities gradually decreases. The freezing stage can last from 2-9 months.
  2. Frozen stage: While pain may decrease in this stage, shoulder stiffness with further increase and become worse which will further limit mobility of the shoulder. This stage can persist for 4-12 months.
  3. Thawing stage: This is the final stage, this is when the shoulder begins to gradually regain mobility and range of motion as the stiffness decreases. Over the time the shoulder will return to normal function. This process can take up to 5-24 months.

 

The prevalence and Risk factors for frozen Shoulder

This Condition primarily affects women around the age of 55, however men are also affected. Adhesive capsulitis or also known as frozen shoulder affects up to 8.2% of males and 10.1% on females therefore making females slightly more susceptible to the condition.

Some of the risk factors that studies have shown that increase the chance of developing the condition are gender (female), diabetes, trauma, and long periods of shoulder immobilization.

 

Signs and Symptoms /Diagnosis

The main signs and symptoms of frozen shoulder include: insidious shoulder pain, gradual loss of range of motion/ movement both actively and even passively, stiffness in the shoulder. Frozen shoulder can only be diagnosed through clinical evaluation like X-rays or MRIs which rule out other potential conditions.

 

Treatment / How Osteopathy Can Help

Here at the clinic, we cannot fix the condition however we can assist with pain management, and exercise to help sustain range of motion as much as possible. Studies show that patients who receive manual therapy have improved function and pain levels. Our aim with this condition is to maintain range of motion throughout the three stages then in the thawing stage, we can work with the patient to regain and increase their strength, Range of motion, and function overall.  Some of the techniques we use to do this may include needing, joint mobilisation, muscle release, and exercise prescription.

 

Summary

Effective management of frozen shoulder requires planning and management throughout the different stages of the conditions.  A well-coordinated care plan can significantly improve patient outcomes, reduce discomfort, and restore shoulder function over time.

By understanding more about what frozen shoulder is and the symptoms, risk factors, and treatment options for adhesive capsulitis, we can help you take proactive steps to seek early intervention and improve your quality of life. If you or someone you know is struggling with persistent shoulder pain, consulting a healthcare provider is the first step toward recovery.

 

References

Abudula, X., Maimaiti, P., Yasheng, A., Shu, J., Tuerxun, A., Abudujilili, H., & Yang, R. (2024). Factors associated with frozen shoulder in adults: A retrospective study. BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders, 25, Article 493. https://doi.org/10.1186/s12891-024-07614-8

 

Page, M. J., Green, S., Kramer, S., Johnston, R. V., McBain, B., Chau, M., & Buchbinder, R. (2014). Manual therapy and exercise for adhesive capsulitis (frozen shoulder). Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, (8), Article CD011275. https://doi.org/10.1002/14651858.CD011275

 St Angelo, J. M., Taqi, M., & Fabiano, S. E. (2023). Adhesive capsulitis. In StatPearls. StatPearls Publishing. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK532955/

 Kim, J., & Lee, J. H. (2023). Effects of dynamic stretching combined with manual therapy on pain, range of motion, function, and quality of life of adhesive capsulitis. Healthcare, 12(1), 45. https://doi.org/10.3390/healthcare12010045

 

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Frozen Shoulder Treatment

Treatment of Frozen Shoulder

Frozen shoulder, also known as adhesive capsulitis, is a common condition that causes pain and stiffness in the shoulder joint. It typically develops slowly over time and can be a debilitating condition if left untreated. In this post, we will explore the various treatment options available for frozen shoulder and how Osteopathy can help in managing the symptoms.

Frozen shoulder is generally self limiting, with resolution of symptoms within 1.5 to 3 years. Treatment and an exercise program may help decreased this time as well as prevent the other shoulder from developing the same condition.

Causes and Symptoms of Frozen Shoulder

Frozen shoulder occurs when the capsule of connective tissue surrounding the shoulder joint becomes inflamed and thickened. This leads to the formation of adhesions, which restrict the movement of the shoulder joint. The exact cause of frozen shoulder is not fully understood, but it is believed to be associated with factors such as age, gender, and certain medical conditions such as diabetes and thyroid disorders.

The main symptoms of frozen shoulder include:

  • Pain: Persistent pain in the shoulder joint, especially with movement.
  • Stiffness: Severe limitation in the range of motion of the shoulder, making daily activities difficult.
  • Weakness: Muscle weakness in the affected shoulder due to lack of use.

Treatment Options for Frozen Shoulder

There are several treatment options available for frozen shoulder, depending on the severity of the condition. These include:

1. Physiotherapy

Physiotherapy plays a crucial role in the treatment of frozen shoulder. A physiotherapist can design a tailored exercise program to help improve the range of motion in the shoulder joint and reduce pain. These exercises may include stretching and strengthening exercises, as well as manual therapy techniques to mobilise the shoulder joint.

2. Medications

Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen can help to reduce pain and inflammation in the shoulder joint. In more severe cases, corticosteroid injections may be recommended to provide temporary relief from pain and improve mobility in the shoulder.

3. Osteopathy

Osteopathy is a holistic approach to healthcare that focuses on the manual manipulation of the musculoskeletal system to improve overall health and wellbeing. Osteopathic treatment for frozen shoulder may involve gentle manipulation of the shoulder joint to help improve range of motion and reduce pain and stiffness.

Research has shown that osteopathy may be an effective treatment option for frozen shoulder, with studies reporting improvements in pain relief and functional outcomes after osteopathic treatment. Osteopathic care focuses on restoring balance and alignment in the body, which can help to alleviate the symptoms of frozen shoulder and improve overall joint health.

We regularly see patients with frozen shoulder an assist them to get back to what they love doing, as well as improving their quality of life.

4. Surgery

In severe cases of frozen shoulder where conservative treatments have not been effective, surgery may be recommended. Surgical procedures for frozen shoulder include arthroscopic capsular release, where the tight capsule surrounding the shoulder joint is cut to improve mobility, or manipulation under anaesthesia, where the shoulder is manipulated to break up adhesions and improve range of motion.

How Osteopathy Can Help

Osteopathy can be an valuable treatment option for frozen shoulder due to its hands-on approach to healthcare. Osteopathic treatment for frozen shoulder may involve:

  • Joint mobilisation: Gentle manipulation of the shoulder joint to improve range of motion and reduce stiffness.
  • Soft tissue techniques: Massage and stretching techniques to help relieve pain and improve muscle function.
  • Postural correction: Assessment and correction of posture to help prevent further strain on the shoulder joint.

Osteopathic treatment for frozen shoulder is tailored to the individual needs of the patient, taking into account their specific symptoms and health history. Osteopaths work to address the underlying causes of frozen shoulder, such as poor posture or muscle imbalances, to help restore normal function in the shoulder joint.

Frozen shoulder is a common condition that can cause pain and stiffness in the shoulder joint. Treatment options for frozen shoulder include physiotherapy, medications, surgery, and Osteopathy. Osteopathic treatment for frozen shoulder can help to improve range of motion, reduce pain, and restore normal function in the shoulder joint. If you are suffering from frozen shoulder, consider seeking Osteopathic care to help manage your symptoms and improve your overall joint health.

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5 Ways Osteopathy Can Help With Frozen Shoulder

5 Ways Osteopathy Can Help with Frozen Shoulder

Dealing with a frozen shoulder can be incredibly frustrating and debilitating. The pain and stiffness can limit your range of motion and affect your quality of life. However, there is hope! Osteopathy is a reliable treatment option that can help alleviate the symptoms of frozen shoulder and help you regain mobility. Here are five ways osteopathy can help:

1. Improving Joint Mobility

Osteopathy focuses on treating the body as a whole, rather than just the symptoms. With frozen shoulder, the joint capsule becomes tight and inflamed, restricting movement. Osteopathic techniques such as joint mobilisation and stretching can help loosen up the joint, increase blood flow, and improve mobility. By releasing tension and restoring function to the joint, osteopathy can help alleviate the pain and stiffness associated with frozen shoulder.

2. Relieving Muscle Tension

When you have a frozen shoulder, the muscles surrounding the joint can become tense and inflamed as they try to compensate for the limited range of motion. Osteopathic treatments such as soft tissue massage and trigger point therapy can help relax these muscles, reduce inflammation, and improve circulation. By releasing tension in the muscles, osteopathy can help reduce pain and improve function in the shoulder.

3. Improving Posture and Alignment

Poor posture and alignment can contribute to the development of frozen shoulder and exacerbate symptoms. Osteopathy can help address underlying structural issues that may be contributing to your condition. By working on improving posture, alignment, and muscle balance, osteopathy can help prevent future shoulder issues and promote overall musculoskeletal health.

4. Enhancing Nerve Function

Frozen shoulder can put pressure on the nerves in the shoulder area, leading to symptoms such as tingling, numbness, and weakness. Osteopathic techniques such as nerve mobilisation can help release tension on the nerves and improve their function. By addressing nerve-related issues, osteopathy can help alleviate additional symptoms associated with frozen shoulder and promote better overall function in the shoulder.

5. Providing Lifestyle and Exercise Advice

Living with a frozen shoulder can be challenging, but osteopathy can offer more than just hands-on treatment. Osteopaths can provide advice on lifestyle modifications, ergonomic changes, and specific exercises to help support your recovery and prevent future issues. By empowering you with the knowledge and tools to manage your condition, osteopathy can help you take control of your health and achieve long-term results.

The Osteopaths at Eclipse health and Osteopathy see many patients with frozen shoulder and other shoulder pain conditions and have had success in treating these conditions.

Frozen shoulder can be a frustrating and painful condition, but osteopathy offers a holistic approach to treatment. By addressing the underlying causes of your symptoms and providing hands-on therapy, osteopathy can help you regain mobility, reduce pain, and improve function in your shoulder. If you are struggling with frozen shoulder, consider incorporating osteopathy into your treatment plan for a comprehensive and personalized approach to healing.

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