Pain Relief for Frozen Shoulder

What is frozen shoulder?

Frozen shoulder, also known as adhesive capsulitis, is a condition characterized by stiffness, pain, and limited range of motion in the shoulder joint. It occurs when the connective tissues surrounding the shoulder joint become thickened and tight.

What are the common causes of frozen shoulder?

The exact cause of frozen shoulder is still unknown. However, certain factors such as shoulder injury, prolonged immobilization, autoimmune diseases, hormonal imbalances, and diabetes have been associated with an increased risk of developing this condition.

What are the symptoms of frozen shoulder?

Common symptoms of frozen shoulder include pain, stiffness, and difficulty in moving the shoulder joint. The pain may worsen at night and can impact everyday activities such as reaching overhead or behind your back.

How long does frozen shoulder last?

The duration of frozen shoulder can vary from person to person. In general, it can last anywhere from several months to a few years. With appropriate treatment and exercises, the recovery process can be facilitated.

What are the available treatment options for frozen shoulder?

Treatment for frozen shoulder includes a combination of pain relief medications, physical therapy, shoulder exercises, and in some cases, corticosteroid injections or surgical intervention. Consultation with a healthcare professional is advised to determine the most suitable treatment approach for your specific condition.

Can I manage frozen shoulder pain at home?

Yes, there are several home remedies that can help alleviate frozen shoulder pain. These include applying hot or cold packs to the affected area, performing gentle stretching exercises, using over-the-counter pain relievers, and practicing good posture to prevent additional strain on the shoulder joint.

Is it possible to prevent frozen shoulder?

While it may not always be possible to prevent frozen shoulder, there are certain measures that can lower the risk. These include maintaining good shoulder mobility through regular stretching exercises, avoiding activities that may lead to shoulder injury, and managing underlying conditions such as diabetes or autoimmune diseases.

When should I seek medical attention for frozen shoulder?

If you are experiencing persistent shoulder pain, loss of mobility, or if the symptoms of frozen shoulder are interfering with your daily activities and quality of life, it is advisable to seek medical attention. A healthcare professional can provide a proper diagnosis and recommend appropriate treatment options.

Can physical therapy help with frozen shoulder?

Physical therapy is often a key component of treatment for frozen shoulder. It can help improve shoulder mobility, reduce pain, and restore strength and function. A physical therapist will design a customized treatment plan that may include exercises, stretching techniques, and manual therapy to facilitate your recovery.

Exercises to Improve Flexibility in Frozen Shoulder.

Are you experiencing limited shoulder motion and pain while performing simple daily activities? It's possible that you may be suffering from a condition called frozen shoulder, also known as adhesive capsulitis. Frozen shoulder can be a disabling and frustrating condition, but luckily, there are exercises that can help improve flexibility and alleviate pain.

Understanding Frozen Shoulder

Frozen shoulder occurs when the connective tissues surrounding the shoulder joint become inflamed and stiff, causing restricted movement. This can be a result of injury, underlying health conditions such as diabetes or thyroid disorders, or even due to prolonged immobilization of the shoulder.

It typically follows three stages:

1. Freezing Stage: This is the initial phase where you experience pain and stiffness in the shoulder. Simple movements become difficult, leading to reduced shoulder range of motion.
2. Frozen Stage: In this stage, the pain may decrease, but the stiffness remains. Your shoulder movement becomes further limited.
3. Thawing Stage: During this final stage, the pain gradually subsides, and the range of motion begins to improve. Complete recovery may take several months to years.

While frozen shoulder can resolve on its own over time, rehabilitation exercises can help speed up the recovery process and improve shoulder mobility.

Exercises to Improve Flexibility

Before starting any exercises to improve flexibility in cases of frozen shoulder, consult a healthcare professional or a physical therapist. They can guide you to ensure you're performing the exercises correctly and at the appropriate intensity.

1. Pendulum Exercises: These gentle exercises help to warm up the shoulder joint and improve its range of motion. Stand beside a table and place your unaffected arm on the table for support. Let the affected arm hang freely and gently swing it back and forth, side to side, and in a circular motion.

2. Wall Climbing: Stand facing a wall and gently walk your fingers up the wall, going as high as you comfortably can. Then slide your fingers back down. Perform this movement several times a day, gradually increasing the height as your shoulder mobility improves.

3. Internal and External Rotation: Hold a broomstick or a dowel with both hands, gripping it shoulder-width apart. Keeping your elbows bent, slowly rotate the stick inward and then outward, without allowing your shoulders to hike up. Repeat this movement for a set of 10-15 times.

4. Stretching Exercises: Perform gentle stretches to improve the flexibility of the shoulder joint. For example, the cross-arm stretch involves extending your affected arm across your chest and using your unaffected arm to gently pull it closer. Hold the stretch for 15-30 seconds and repeat a few times.

5. Codman's Pendulum Swing: Lean forward slightly and support yourself by placing your unaffected hand on a table or chair. Allow your affected arm to hang freely, and then gently swing it in a forward and backward motion, as well as side to side. Perform this exercise for a few minutes each day.

Remember, consistency is key when it comes to performing these exercises. Start with gentle movements and gradually progress as your shoulder becomes more flexible. However, avoid any exercises that cause sharp pain or discomfort.

If you're unsure about which exercises are suitable for your specific condition, it's best to consult a healthcare professional. At Eastside Ideal Health, our team of experienced chiropractors, physical therapists, and sports medicine experts can provide guidance and tailor a rehabilitation program to suit your needs.

For effective treatment and rehabilitation of frozen shoulder and other musculoskeletal conditions, visit Eastside Ideal Health and book an appointment today.