Physical Therapy Benefits For Frozen Shoulder

Much more common in women than men, frozen shoulder typically affects those in the 40- to 60-year age range. In fact, about 3% of the general population and 20% of those with diabetes suffer from this puzzling condition.

Its technical name, Adhesive Capsulitis, comes from the area affected (the shoulder’s joint capsule), and the fact that shrinkage and/or inflammation lead to scarring, which causes a “sticking” (or adhesion) of the tissue within.

Stages of Frozen Shoulder

The benefits of Physical Therapy vary according to the stage of frozen shoulder you experience:

  • Stage 1: The “freezing phase,” during which the shoulder becomes increasingly painful and stiff. It typically lasts from a few weeks and up to eight months. During this phase, the shoulder is resistant to aggressive physical therapy or pain reduction and is very difficult to treat. When possible, passive or assisted range-of-motion exercises can help prevent loss of movement, and various pain-reducing methods can sometimes help. Some research indicates that anything beyond minimal treatment during the “freezing phase” could impede long term success.
  • Stage 2: The “frozen or stiffening phase ,” during which treatment may become more effective. This phase usually lasts up to 12 months . Although the shoulder is still very stiff, Physical Therapy protocols can become more active as pain recedes. Frequently, a nerve block administered by an anesthesiologist can be effective. Over-the-counter medications can also be effective in reducing pain. The goal during this phase is to retain and regain as much motion as possible.
  • Stage 3: The “thawing” or recovery stage, is when therapy can be more aggressive and can be better tolerated. the“ thawing or recovery phase ,” which can last up to 24 months. Sometimes, arthroscopic surgery, in which specific tight sections of the shoulder capsule are cut to “release” them, is recommended and helpful, but often frozen shoulder resolves fairly well without it.

If you’re looking for more insight on Frozen Shoulders, check out this podcast by our TJC Orthopedic partner and renowned shoulder specialist, Dr Sameer Nagda! Dr. Nagda is the Chief of Shoulder Surgery for the Inova Health System and the head shoulder surgeon at the Anderson Orthopaedic Clinic.

In this podcast he breaks down frozen shoulder for non-medical specialists. Learn what it is, who gets it, and how best to treat it!

Experiencing frozen shoulder? Schedule an appointment with us! We can assess the stage of the condition and devise a specific treatment program to get you back to full range of motion as quickly and completely as possible.

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