Frozen shoulder, medically known as adhesive capsulitis, is a condition that restricts shoulder movement and causes pain. At Therapy and Performance Clinic in Warwick, UK, we specialize in treating musculoskeletal conditions like frozen shoulder through physiotherapy, sports massage, and tailored fitness and nutrition plans. In this article, we'll explore what frozen shoulder is, its symptoms, and how our clinic can help you regain full shoulder function.
What is Frozen Shoulder?
Frozen shoulder occurs when the connective tissue around the shoulder joint, known as the shoulder capsule, becomes thickened and tight. This leads to the formation of scar tissue, which restricts movement and causes pain. The condition progresses through three stages—freezing, frozen, and thawing—each affecting your range of motion differently.
Causes of Frozen Shoulder
Understanding the causes of frozen shoulder is crucial for effective management and prevention. Here are some common causes:
Idiopathic: Often, frozen shoulder develops without a clear reason, known as idiopathic frozen shoulder.
Post-Surgery: It can occur after surgical procedures, especially those involving the shoulder or chest.
Post-Injury: Injuries such as fractures or rotator cuff tears can lead to frozen shoulder.
Several risk factors can also increase your likelihood of developing this condition:
Age and Gender: People aged 40-60, particularly women, are more prone to developing frozen shoulder.
Diabetes: Individuals with diabetes are at higher risk.
Immobility: Prolonged shoulder immobility due to surgery, injury, or illness increases the risk.
Systemic Conditions: Conditions like thyroid disorders, cardiovascular disease, and Parkinson’s disease are associated with frozen shoulder.
Symptoms of Frozen Shoulder
Frozen shoulder typically presents with stiffness and pain in one shoulder, limiting your ability to move your arm. The condition progresses through three stages:
Freezing Stage: Gradual onset of pain, especially during extreme arm movements, and difficulty sleeping.
Frozen Stage: Significant reduction in range of motion, with pain only during extreme movements.
Thawing Stage: Gradual improvement in range of motion over several months or even years.
It's important to note that frozen shoulder can be confused with other shoulder conditions like rotator cuff injuries, bursitis, or shoulder impingement. This is why obtaining an accurate diagnosis is essential.
Do’s and Don’ts for Managing Frozen Shoulder
While waiting for a professional diagnosis, here are some general guidelines:
Do:
Stay active without overexerting yourself.
Use hot and cold compresses to manage pain.
Maintain good posture to avoid straining the unaffected shoulder.
Move your arm as much as is comfortable to prevent stiffness.
Don’t:
Keep your shoulder completely immobile.
Self-diagnose without a proper assessment.
Ignore pain or try to push through it.
When to See a Physiotherapist
If you experience ongoing shoulder stiffness and pain that doesn't improve with rest, it's time to see a physiotherapist. At Therapy and Performance Clinic, our experienced physiotherapists in Warwick can accurately diagnose frozen shoulder through a comprehensive assessment. This includes taking a detailed medical history, observing your posture and range of movement, and possibly using imaging tests.
Why Choose Therapy and Performance Clinic in Warwick?
At Therapy and Performance Clinic, we are dedicated to improving your quality of life through expert physiotherapy and tailored fitness and nutrition plans. Our modern, state-of-the-art facility in Warwick is equipped to provide the highest standard of care. Our experienced team specialises in musculoskeletal physiotherapy, ensuring you receive the most effective treatment for your frozen shoulder.
Don’t let frozen shoulder hold you back. Book an appointment with us today and start your journey towards recovery. Whether you're using private health insurance or self-funding, our goal is to help you return to your normal activities as quickly and safely as possible.
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