Frozen shoulder, or adhesive capsulitis, is the term given to the condition that is characterized by pain and a loss of shoulder range of motion. There are 2 types of frozen shoulder- primary and secondary.
Primary frozen shoulder is idiopathic in nature, meaning that the true cause is unknown. There are factors that place one at higher risk for developing this condition, including diabetes, thyroid dysfunction, cardiovascular disease, and Parkinson’s disease. Females over the age of 40 also appear to be at higher risk.
Secondary frozen shoulder occurs secondary to injury, prolonged immobilization, or surgery to the involved shoulder.
There are 3 stages of adhesive capsulitis: freezing, frozen and thawing. These stages last anywhere from weeks to months and can vary from person to person.
The freezing stage is characterized by severe pain and a gradual loss of shoulder motion.
The frozen stage is characterized by significant loss of motion. Pain may begin to decrease in this stage.
The thawing phase is characterized by a slow improvement in both pain and motion.
How does Physical Therapy Help?
Physical therapy for adhesive capsulitis is vital to restore function. Modalities such as heat, electrical stimulation, and/or ultrasound may be used to help with pain, while exercises designed to improve the range of motion of your shoulder will be prescribed. Manual joint mobilization and passive range of motion will also be performed by your therapist to help you improve the available motion in your shoulder.
Because each stage of frozen shoulder presents differently with regards to pain and motion, your plan of care may change from stage to stage. Your physical therapist has undergone extensive orthopedic training and will identify which stage you are in during your initial examination and prescribe an appropriate treatment program for you.
Do you think you have a frozen shoulder, contact our offices at 480-785-5415 to schedule an evaluation. Pritchette Physical Therapy offers an Ahwatukee and Ahwatukee Foothills location to serve you.