Frozen Shoulder: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

What is Frozen Shoulder?

Frozen shoulder, also known as adhesive capsulitis, causes pain, stiffness, and reduced motion in the shoulder joint. It often develops after an injury or period of immobility when the shoulder joint capsule thickens and tightens. Early shoulder movement after an injury may also contribute to this condition. While the exact cause isn’t always clear, it affects about 2% of people, most commonly women aged 40–70.

Who is at risk?

Frozen shoulder is more likely to affect individuals who experience prolonged immobility or reduced movement in the shoulder. This can happen for a variety of reasons, including:

• Surgery: Procedures involving the shoulder, chest, or other nearby areas can require limited movement during recovery, increasing the risk of frozen shoulder.

• Rotator Cuff Injuries: Damage to the muscles or tendons surrounding the shoulder joint can lead to restricted motion, making the shoulder more susceptible.

• Broken Arms: Immobilization due to wearing a cast or sling after a fracture can contribute to the development of frozen shoulder.

• Strokes: Neurological events like strokes often limit arm and shoulder mobility, raising the risk of joint stiffness.

• Lack of Tissue Manipulation: Not enough manipulation of the tissue after strengthening and exercising.

The Three Stages of Frozen Shoulder

1. Freezing Stage (2–9 months)
   Pain increases with movement, and shoulder mobility decreases.

2. Frozen Stage (4–12 months)
   Pain may subside, but stiffness worsens, making shoulder use difficult.

3. Thawing Stage (5–24 months)
   Mobility gradually improves as the shoulder begins to "thaw."

Treatment Options for Frozen Shoulder

Most people recover without surgery, using treatments to manage pain and restore mobility, such as:

• Ortho-Bionomy®:
  Ortho-Bionomy® is a gentle, pain-free technique that promotes the body's natural alignment. For frozen shoulder, this technique targets specific tension points to release tightness and improve range of motion without causing discomfort.

• Red Light LED Therapy:
  Red Light LED Therapy helps reduce inflammation and support healing. It enhances circulation and cellular repair in the shoulder, promoting faster recovery and easing stiffness associated with frozen shoulder.

• Stretchflex/Positional Release Therapy:
  Exercises and stretches, often combined with heat, improve range of motion. Examples include:

• Crossover Arm Stretch: Gently pull your arm across your chest and hold for 30 seconds.

• Forward Flexion (Supine Position): Use your unaffected arm to lift the affected arm overhead while lying on your back. Hold for 15 seconds.

• External Rotation (Passive Stretch): Stand in a doorway, rotate your body while keeping your hand on the doorjamb. Hold for 30 seconds.

• Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs):
  Medications like ibuprofen or aspirin can help reduce pain and inflammation.

How Ortho-Bionomy® Helps with Frozen Shoulder

Ortho-Bionomy® offers a gentle approach to releasing tension and improving range of motion. By targeting seven key points on the shoulder, it allows the body to self-correct, providing relief with minimal discomfort. Regular sessions are recommended to maintain progress.

Frozen shoulder can be frustrating, but with the right treatment plan and consistent care, most people experience significant improvement. If you're struggling with frozen shoulder, book an introductory appointment with Colene in Scottsdale or Omaha and learn how she can support your recovery.