Frozen Shoulder
What causes Frozen Shoulder?
Frozen shoulder, also called adhesive capsulitis, happens when the capsule of ligaments around the shoulder joint thickens, limiting movement and causing pain. It can follow a shoulder injury or surgery, though the underlying cause is not fully understood.
Pain is usually the first symptom and can be severe, often worse at night or with movement. Over time the shoulder becomes stiffer, and simple daily activities get harder.
The pain usually settles within a few months, but the stiffness can last much longer - which is where physiotherapy matters most, keeping the shoulder muscles strong and the joint moving.
How we treat Frozen Shoulder
Physiotherapy for frozen shoulder focuses on improving your range of motion and reducing pain, and can include:
Targeted stretching and strengthening exercises
Manual therapy techniques such as joint mobilisation and trigger point therapy
Dry needling where appropriate
Recovery from frozen shoulder is a slow process, and it can take several months to a year for the shoulder to fully recover. With the right physiotherapy, most people achieve significant improvements in shoulder function.
Your first appointment
At your first appointment, your physiotherapist will ask about your history and symptoms, assess your movement and discuss the findings and treatment plan with you. Exercises, self-management advice and hands-on treatment may be included where appropriate, with time for your questions.
Read more about the first appointment.