FROZEN SHOULDER

Frozen Shoulder is a complex condition that is still not completely understood. It occurs when the shoulder joint capsule becomes inflamed and surrounding tissues become fibrotic, causing pain and movement restriction. Over time, the inflammation resolves and the fibrotic tissue returns to normal and in almost all cases the sufferer will regain a fully functional shoulder. According to the latest research, a Frozen Shoulder takes on average 30 months to resolve with a range of 3 months to 3 years for some patients.

It affects up to 5% of the population and the risk is higher in the following population groups:

• Aged between 40 - 60

• Women

• People with Diabetes or Thyroid Disease

While a physiotherapist or any other health professional cannot ‘cure’ Frozen Shoulder, there are many benefits to physiotherapy that can make the experience more bearable for the sufferer. At Total Physio we will:

• Reduce your pain

• Minimise loss of mobility

• Maintain as much function as possible

• Introduce stretching and exercise when appropriate to regain mobility as quickly as possible

Appropriate treatment for Frozen Shoulder can include:

• Education on the condition and lifestyle modifications

• Corticosteroid injection in the early stages to reduce pain and maintain function

• Joint mobilisations

• Soft-tissue release and massage

• Exercise advice with consideration of each individual presentation

• Heat therapy

• Stretching appropriate to the irritability of the individual

• Strengthening exercises as pain reduces and mobility improves

If you have been diagnosed or suspect you may have a Frozen Shoulder, book a consultation with one of our physiotherapists.