At The Physios, we specialize in providing effective, science-backed physiotherapy solutions for individuals suffering from frozen shoulder (also known as adhesive capsulitis). This common yet debilitating condition affects the shoulder joint, causing pain, stiffness, and severely limited range of motion. Whether you're in the early stages of discomfort or struggling with chronic stiffness, our experienced team is here to guide you toward recovery with personalized care and evidence-based techniques.
Frozen shoulder is a condition that causes inflammation and thickening of the capsule surrounding the shoulder joint. Over time, this capsule tightens and restricts movement, leading to increasing pain and a “frozen” sensation in the shoulder. The condition typically progresses in three stages: the freezing stage (painful), the frozen stage (stiffness), and the thawing stage (gradual recovery). At The Physios, we understand that frozen shoulder not only limits physical activity but also disrupts daily life. Simple tasks like dressing, reaching overhead, or lifting objects become painful and challenging. That’s why our treatment plans are tailored to address each stage of the condition, helping you recover faster and regain function.
Frozen shoulder can develop without a clear cause (idiopathic), but several risk factors increase the likelihood of developing this condition. These include:
Diagnosis of frozen shoulder at The Physios begins with a thorough clinical evaluation. Our experienced physiotherapists assess your medical history, shoulder mobility, and pain levels. We use orthopedic tests and physical examination techniques to distinguish frozen shoulder from other conditions like rotator cuff injuries or arthritis. In some cases, we may recommend imaging (like X-rays or MRI scans) to rule out other underlying issues. Our goal is to provide an accurate diagnosis that forms the foundation for an effective treatment plan.
At The Physios, our frozen shoulder treatment is non-invasive, personalized, and focused on restoring mobility while reducing pain. Depending on the stage of your condition, our physiotherapists may implement a combination of the following:
Hands-on joint mobilization techniques to stretch the capsule and improve joint movement. Gentle yet targeted, these therapies help reduce stiffness and increase range of motion.
Guided exercises designed to gradually restore shoulder movement. We focus on active and passive stretches, tailored to your pain threshold and progress.
Once flexibility improves, we incorporate resistance-based exercises to rebuild shoulder strength and prevent further injury.
We use modalities like ultrasound therapy, TENS (Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation), heat therapy, and cryotherapy to manage pain and inflammation during treatment.
Our therapists equip you with a personalized home exercise routine to maintain progress between sessions and speed up recovery.