Understanding Frozen Shoulder: What It Is and How Osteopathy Can Help

What is Frozen Shoulder?

Frozen shoulder, also known as adhesive capsulitis, is a condition that causes stiffness and pain in the shoulder joint. Over time, it becomes increasingly difficult to move the shoulder, and daily activities can become a struggle. This condition typically progresses in three stages, each with its own distinct symptoms:

1. Freezing Stage: The shoulder begins to hurt, and movement becomes more limited. This stage can last anywhere from 6 weeks to 9 months.

2. Frozen Stage: Pain may begin to decrease, but the shoulder remains stiff. Movement is significantly restricted, and this phase can last between 4 to 12 months.

3. Thawing Stage: Movement gradually returns to the shoulder, and pain continues to diminish. This stage can last anywhere from 6 months to 2 years.

The exact cause of frozen shoulder isn't always clear, but it’s often linked to periods of immobility after an injury or surgery, or it may develop alongside certain conditions like diabetes.

How Does Frozen Shoulder Present?

Common symptoms of frozen shoulder include:

• Dull or aching pain: Often felt in the shoulder itself or upper arm.

• Stiffness: Difficulty with overhead or behind-the-back movements, such as putting on a jacket or reaching for something on a high shelf.

• Limited Range of Motion: The shoulder feels “stuck,” making daily tasks like brushing hair, dressing, or reaching painful and difficult.

How Osteopathy Can Help with Frozen Shoulder

Osteopathy offers a holistic and effective approach to treating frozen shoulder. Using a combination of manual therapy techniques, osteopaths can help improve movement and reduce pain throughout the various stages of the condition.

Here’s how osteopathy can assist:

• Restoring Mobility: Osteopaths use gentle stretching, joint mobilization, and soft tissue techniques to gradually improve the range of motion in the shoulder.

• Pain Relief: Through targeted techniques such as deep tissue massage and myofascial release, osteopathy can help reduce muscle tension and ease pain.

• Promoting Circulation and Healing: Osteopathic treatment encourages better blood flow to the affected area, supporting your body’s natural healing processes and reducing inflammation.

• Postural and Movement Advice: Osteopaths can provide guidance on proper posture, movement patterns, and exercises to support recovery and prevent further strain on the shoulder joint.

Because frozen shoulder can take months to fully resolve, regular osteopathic treatments can help to manage symptoms, improve function, and accelerate recovery.

Take Control of Your Shoulder Health

If you're struggling with frozen shoulder, seeking osteopathic treatment early on can help you regain movement and reduce discomfort. At [Clinic Name], our experienced osteopaths are here to guide you through a tailored treatment plan that addresses your specific needs.