Frozen Shoulder Recovery Guide

Frozen ShoulderComprehensive Management

Frozen shoulder (adhesive capsulitis) is a condition that causes pain and stiffness in the shoulder joint. Learn about the stages and effective management strategies.

2-5%

Population prevalence

40-60

Most affected age range

12-24

Months typical duration

70%

Women affected

Understanding Frozen Shoulder

What is Frozen Shoulder?

Frozen shoulder, or adhesive capsulitis, occurs when the shoulder capsule becomes thick and tight, severely limiting movement and causing pain.

Risk Factors:

Diabetes (10-20% prevalence)
Thyroid disorders
Prolonged immobilization
Age 40-60 years

Common Symptoms

Severe shoulder stiffness
Deep, aching shoulder pain
Night pain disrupting sleep
Inability to reach overhead
Difficulty with daily activities

Stages of Frozen Shoulder

Freezing Stage (2-9 months)

Characteristics:

Progressive loss of range of motion
Increasing pain, especially at night
Pain with movement in all directions
Difficulty sleeping on affected side

Treatment Focus:

Pain management and gentle mobility

Duration: 2-9 months

Frozen Stage (4-12 months)

Characteristics:

Significant limitation in all directions
Pain may decrease but stiffness persists
Difficulty with daily activities
Muscle weakness from disuse

Treatment Focus:

Maintain available range and prevent further loss

Duration: 4-12 months

Thawing Stage (12-24 months)

Characteristics:

Slow improvement in range of motion
Decreased pain and stiffness
Gradual return of function
May have residual limitations

Treatment Focus:

Progressive range of motion and strengthening

Duration: 12-24 months

Treatment Management

Freezing Stage Management

Goals:

Control pain and inflammationMaintain available range of motionPrevent further stiffness

Key Interventions:

Anti-inflammatory medications

Corticosteroid injections

Gentle range of motion exercises

Heat therapy before exercises

Ice therapy after exercises

Manual therapy techniques

Activity modification

Frozen Stage Management

Goals:

Maintain available motionPrevent muscle atrophyAdapt daily activities

Key Interventions:

Gentle stretching exercises

Isometric strengthening

Joint mobilization techniques

Adaptive equipment use

Ergonomic modifications

Pain management strategies

Patient education

Thawing Stage Management

Goals:

Restore range of motionRebuild strengthReturn to normal activities

Key Interventions:

Progressive stretching program

Strengthening exercises

Functional training

Manual therapy

Activity progression

Work conditioning

Long-term maintenance program

Exercise Program

Gentle Range of Motion

Pendulum Swings

Gentle passive motion with gravity assistance

Protocol: 3 sets x 10 each direction

Frequency: 3-4 times daily

Table Slides

Slide arm on table surface to improve flexion

Protocol: 3 sets x 10 reps

Frequency: Daily

Wall Walks

Walk fingers up wall to improve overhead reach

Protocol: 3 sets x 5-10 reps

Frequency: Daily