Frozen shoulder, also known as adhesive capsulitis, is a condition characterised by stiffness and pain in the shoulder joint. It typically develops gradually, gets worse over time, and then resolves, usually within one to three years. The exact cause of frozen shoulder is not well understood, but it often begins after a shoulder injury or immobilisation, and people with certain systemic conditions like diabetes or thyroid disease are at higher risk.
Phases of Frozen Shoulder
Frozen shoulder typically progresses through three stages:
1. Freezing Stage: During this stage, any movement of the shoulder causes pain, and the range of motion starts to become limited.
2. Frozen Stage: The pain may begin to diminish during this stage, but the shoulder becomes stiffer, and using it becomes more difficult.
3. Thawing Stage: The range of motion in the shoulder gradually begins to improve.
Symptoms of Frozen Shoulder
– Pain: Typically the pain is a dull or aching pain in the outer shoulder area and sometimes the upper arm.
– Limited Movement: Progressive limitation of shoulder movement, affecting daily activities like dressing or reaching overhead.
Benefits of Osteopathic Treatment
The holistic approach of osteopathy not only addresses the symptoms of frozen shoulder but also aims to improve overall body mechanics and function, potentially reducing the duration of the condition and improving quality of life. Osteopathy helps by maintaining as much range of motion as possible, managing pain, and minimizing the impact on daily activities.
Incorporating osteopathic care for frozen shoulder can lead to a more proactive recovery process, providing relief from pain and stiffness while promoting greater movement and function of the shoulder joint.
Osteopathic treatment provides a comprehensive approach focusing on pain relief, improving range of motion, and restoring function. Here’s how osteopathy can help manage and potentially expedite recovery from a frozen shoulder:Â
  – Soft Tissue Techniques: Osteopaths may use soft tissue techniques to massage and stretch the muscles around the shoulder to relieve tension and pain.
  – Joint Mobilization: Gentle, controlled movements to the joint surfaces can help to increase range of motion and alleviate stiffness.
Myofascial Release:Â
– This technique is used to release restrictions in the fascia (connective tissue) surrounding the shoulder, enhancing movement and reducing pain.
Indirect Techniques:Â
– Techniques such as counterstrain or functional techniques that involve gentle positioning and movements can help decrease pain and improve function without causing additional pain.
Exercise Prescription:Â
– Specific exercises aimed at maintaining and increasing the range of motion, strengthening the shoulder muscles, and stabilizing the joint are crucial. An osteopath will guide appropriate exercises based on the stage of the condition.
Advice on Lifestyle and Activities:Â
– Education on activities and ergonomic adjustments that can help prevent worsening of the condition, along with guidance on how to manage daily activities without straining the shoulder.
Pain Management Education:Â
– Osteopaths can provide advice on managing pain through various modalities such as heat or cold therapy, depending on the individual’s symptoms and what stage the frozen shoulder is in.
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