Frozen Shoulder (Adhesive Capsulitis): What You Need To Know For A Smooth Recovery

Frozen shoulder, also known as adhesive capsulitis, is a condition that causes pain, stiffness, and limited mobility in the shoulder joint. While it can be frustrating, understanding the stages of this condition and how it develops can help you navigate through the healing process with confidence. Here’s what you need to know about frozen shoulder and how to achieve a smooth recovery.

What Is Frozen Shoulder?

Frozen shoulder occurs when the connective tissues around the shoulder joint become inflamed and stiff, leading to restricted movement and intense pain. There are two main types:

Primary Adhesive Capsulitis: This type arises without any clear cause or prior injury.
Secondary Adhesive Capsulitis: This occurs after an injury or surgery that leads to restricted shoulder motion, like rotator cuff issues or trauma.

The condition typically progresses through four stages:

Stage 1 (Freezing Stage): You’ll begin to feel pain in the shoulder, which gradually worsens as the range of motion starts to decrease.
Stage 2 (Frozen Stage): Pain remains, but stiffness is the primary symptom. The shoulder becomes very stiff, making it difficult to move.
Stage 3 (Thawing Stage): Pain decreases, but stiffness can persist for months.
Stage 4 (Recovery Stage): You start regaining full motion, but it might take time for your shoulder to feel like it did before.

Symptoms You May Experience

Pain in the shoulder that worsens at the end of the range of motion
Limited range of motion, especially when reaching overhead or behind your back
Night pain that disrupts your sleep
Stiffness that limits your ability to perform daily activities like dressing or reaching

Causes and Risk Factors

Frozen shoulder tends to affect people aged 40-65, and it’s more common in women. Those with underlying health conditions such as diabetes or thyroid disease are at higher risk, as the condition can be linked to certain medical conditions. Additionally, previous shoulder trauma or surgery can also increase the risk of developing frozen shoulder.

Treatment Options

While treatment for frozen shoulder can vary, here are some common approaches to aid in recovery:

1. Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation for Spine and Joints

Physical therapy plays a significant role in regaining shoulder function. It focuses on stretching, strengthening, and mobilizing the shoulder joint to restore movement and reduce pain. Specific exercises can help improve the range of motion, so you’ll need to work with your therapist to target the affected areas.

For example, Codman pendulum exercises and wall walking can be highly effective in the early stages of recovery. Dry needling may also help relieve muscle tightness and improve movement .

2. Manual Therapy

Techniques like scapular mobilization and joint mobilization techniques at the shoulder’s end range can promote flexibility and reduce stiffness. Scapular mobilization is especially important as it addresses the connection between the shoulder blade and arm, improving overall shoulder function.

3. Medications for Pain Relief

Over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medications, such as ibuprofen, can help manage pain and inflammation. If the pain is severe, corticosteroid injections may be considered to reduce inflammation and improve mobility .

4. Surgical Options

In some cases, especially for persistent and severe symptoms, manipulation under anesthesia or arthroscopic release may be recommended to loosen the tight capsule. However, surgery is generally a last resort and should be considered after other treatments have been exhausted.

Lifestyle Changes and Self-Care

Adopting healthy habits can help speed up your recovery and keep you stay injury-free in the future. Focus on maintaining fitness and function, including regular stretching and strengthening exercises for overall shoulder mobility. Massage can also help relieve tight muscles and improve circulation, aiding in your shoulder’s recovery.

Preventing Frozen Shoulder

Preventing frozen shoulder often comes down to prehabilitation and staying active. If you have a history of shoulder issues or other conditions like chronic ankle instability, it’s essential to stay consistent with exercise to maintain flexibility and strength. This will help your shoulder joint function properly and reduce the risk of developing painful conditions like frozen shoulder.

Incorporating small changes in your sleep posture and staying mindful of repetitive movements can also protect your shoulder from future injury. If you’re working at a transforming workplace or engaging in activities like golf or crossfit performance, take time to ensure proper shoulder alignment and avoid activities that could put unnecessary strain on your joint.

Although frozen shoulder can feel like a long road to recovery, with the right treatment plan, it is possible to regain full range of motion and enjoy pain-free shoulder function once again. Be patient, follow your rehabilitation plan, and work closely with your healthcare team for a smooth and effective recovery. Don’t forget, Vitamin D supplements for bone health and regular exercise can help promote stronger joints, making them less prone to injury in the future.

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Richard L. Cole, DC, DACNB, DAIPM, FIACN, FICC
Jeffrey D. Luebbe, DC, CCRD, CCSP
W. Steven Vollmer, DC, DAAPM
Bradford J. Cole, DC, MS, CSCS
J. Colby Poston, DC
Daniel H. Smith, DC
2845 Summer Oaks Dr., Memphis, TN 38134
(901) 377-2340

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