Frozen Shoulder - Helpful Hints

BJ - Blog Frozen Shoulder.jpeg

Frozen Shoulder, or to give it the technical name - Adhesive Capsulitis, is a common condition affecting between 2-5% of the population. The cause is unknown, but there are certainly some factors that can contribute including previous shoulder injuries and diabetes.

So, what is Frozen Shoulder?

As you probably know, the shoulder is a ball and socket joint. There is a capsule that surrounds the joint, which provides stability and sensory information for the shoulder. This structure is very large and quite loose which is what enables us to have the flexibility and range of movement we need.

When the capsule tightens it leads to restricted and painful movement. This is called a frozen shoulder. The restriction affects all mobility - lifting the arm to the side or in front/behind, and every day tasks such as brushing your hair can become very difficult. The pain is often worse at night, where it is hard to find a comfortable sleeping position.

What should you do?

  • Take analgesics to relieve pain and aid movement

  • Use heat to relax muscles

  • Gentle exercise helps to keep the body mobile and stop it seizing up altogether. A number of the muscles that attach to the shoulder also attach to the neck so some neck stretches are good, as is maintaining good posture.
    Here are some great exercises for you to try: Frozen Shoulder Exercises

  • Don't ignore it - long term changes in the movement pattern of your shoulder can lead to poor postural alignment and that in turn can cause neck and back pain. You often overcompensate too, which could lead to pain in the other shoulder!

  • Treatment of the surrounding area - this can help to reduce the discomfort, as well as focusing on the exercises and additional care you can take.

  • Steroid injections can be used occasionally to reduce inflammation

  • Consult your GP, Physiotherapist or Chiropractor to ensure what you are experiencing is frozen shoulder and not another problem. They will also give you advice on how to look after yourself properly to aid the healing process.

Fortunately, frozen shoulder does normally resolve itself. Unfortunately, this can take from nine months to three years, so you do need to be patient. The good news is that the vast majority of people regain full or nearly full mobility, and are pain free.

And remember...

If you need us, please call the clinic and we will be happy to advise you.

Please call us on 01256 466 266.

Nicky Parker