Frozen Shoulder also called adhesive capsulitis is a common inflammatory disorder which causes pain, stiffness, and loss of movement in the shoulder. The resulting disability can be serious, and the condition tends to get worse with time if it’s not treated. It affects mainly women between the ages 40 to 60.

We don’t fully understand the cause but freezing usually occurs after the shoulder has been immobilised for a long time but in many cases the cause is obscure. Fortunately, the shoulder can usually be ‘unfrozen’, though full recovery can take up to 18 months.

Your shoulder joint has a wider and more varied range of motion than any other joint in your body involving the articulation of 3 bones. It consists of a flexible capsule filled with lubricant protecting the joint. This capsule is surrounded by ligaments, tendons and bursae (fluid sacs) which cushion tendons and bones during movement. A shoulder is “frozen” when this capsule protecting the joint contracts and stiffens due to inflammation.

Once you have a diagnosis of Frozen Shoulder your Physiotherapist will help you with pain management and inflammation mitigation (Electrotherapy, Ultrasound and Laser Therapy) as well as ergonomic advice to avoid exacerbation. When your movement starts to improve your Physiotherapist will then devise a specific graduated exercise program for you. Supplements such as Turmeric, Omega 3 and a diet limiting pro-inflammatory foods will also be recommended.