Understanding Frozen Shoulder (Adhesive Capsulitis)

Frozen shoulder is a condition characterized by progressive stiffness and pain in the shoulder joint, typically developing in three distinct phases:

1. Freezing Stage – Gradual onset of pain with increasing stiffness
2. Frozen Stage – Significant stiffness dominates despite pain reduction
3. Thawing Stage – Gradual return of mobility

This condition most commonly affects:

• Adults aged 40-60
• Women more frequently than men
• People with diabetes or thyroid considtions (2-4 times higher risk)
• Those recovering from shoulder injuries or surgery

Without proper intervention, frozen shoulder can persist for 2-3 years, significantly impacting quality of life, daily function and there can still be limitations after recovery

Causes and Symptoms of Frozen Shoulder

Primary Causes

1. Idiopathic (Unknown Origin)

   • Most common form with no clear trigger
   • Often develops gradually without injury

2. Secondary Causes

   • Prolonged immobilization after injury/surgery
   • Diabetes mellitus (especially poorly controlled)
   • Thyroid disorders
   • Cardiovascular disease
   • Parkinson’s disease

3. Contributing Factors

   • Shoulder trauma or repetitive strain
   • Prolonged poor posture
   • Autoimmune conditions

Common Symptoms

• Progressive stiffness making movements like brushing hair or fastening bras difficult
• Dull, aching pain often worse at night
• Sharp pain with sudden movements
• Significant range of motion loss in all directions:
  • Limited overhead reach
  • Difficulty reaching behind back
  • Restricted outward rotation
• Muscle atrophy from prolonged disuse

Professional Frozen Shoulder Treatment

Our clinic specializes in stage-specific treatment to maximize recovery at every phase:

1. Comprehensive Assessment

• Detailed range of motion measurements
• Pain mapping and symptom analysis
• Functional movement evaluation

2. Stage-Appropriate Treatment

Freezing Phase (Pain Dominant)

• Pain management strategies
• Modalities to reduce inflammation
• Activity modification guidance
• Joint mobilisation

Hydrodilatation (if indicated) Frozen Phase (Stiffness Dominant)

• Progressive joint capsule stretching
• Advanced manual therapy techniques
• Therapeutic exercises
• Hydrodilatation (if indicated)

Thawing Phase (Recovery)

• Progressive strengthening
• Functional movement retraining
• Prevention strategies

3. Advanced Treatment Options

• Hydrodilatation: Gentle joint capsule stretching with sterile fluid
• Therapeutic ultrasound for tissue mobility
• Shockwave therapy for chronic cases

"After months of frustration, the targeted treatment plan helped me regain 90% of my shoulder movement in just 12 weeks." - Mrs. Tan, 58

Why Our Approach Works

✔ Specialized Protocols for each stage of frozen shoulder
✔ Combination Therapies addressing both pain and stiffness
✔ Personalized Care Plans based on individual progress
✔ 15+ Years Experience treating complex shoulder conditions

Take Control of Your Shoulder Health

Early intervention leads to better outcomes. Limited consultation slots available – book your comprehensive frozen shoulder assessment today.