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Frozen Shoulder Treatment

Frozen Shoulder (adhesive capsulitis) happens when the shoulder joint becomes stiff and painful. It is caused by inflammation and thickening of the capsule that surrounds the shoulder joint, leading to a loss of movement in the joint.

 

The condition typically develops gradually and goes through three stages: the freezing stage, the frozen stage, and the thawing stage.

 

  • In the freezing stage, which can last from a few weeks to several months, the shoulder gradually becomes more painful, and movement becomes restricted. The pain may be more severe at night, making sleeping difficult.

  • In the frozen stage, which can last from four to six months, the pain may lessen, but the shoulder remains stiff and challenging to perform everyday tasks such as reaching for objects or lifting the arm.

  • In the thawing stage, which can last up to two years, the shoulder gradually begins to regain its range of motion, but this can be slow.

 

Frozen Shoulder can affect anyone, but it is more common in women and people over 40. It can also be associated with certain medical conditions such as diabetes, thyroid problems, and heart disease.

 

Treatment

Treatment for a frozen shoulder may include massage therapy, and stretching exercises, to relax the muscles and relieve the tension. By relaxing the muscles and stretching exercises, mobility will improve, inflammation may reduce, and you will notice enhanced function. 

 

With proper treatment, most people with frozen shoulders will eventually regain the full range of motion in their shoulder joints. It is essential to continue being active and not stop moving because of the discomfort as you recover, which may take several months to heal.

It is important to consult with a massage therapist who has experience in treating tendonitis and can tailor the massage to your specific needs.

Questions we are Asked about Frozen Shoulder

What causes a Frozen Shoulder?

 

  1. Rotator cuff injuries: a group of muscles and tendons that keep the shoulder joint stable.

  2. Frozen Shoulder: connective tissue surrounding the shoulder joint becomes inflamed and stiff, limiting movement and causing pain.

  3. Arthritis: Arthritis can affect any joint in the body, including the shoulder joint. Osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis are common types.

  4. Bursitis: small sacs of fluid that cushion and lubricate the joints. When these sacs become inflamed, it can cause pain and stiffness in the shoulder.

  5. Tendinitis: inflammation of a tendon occurs in the shoulder and can cause pain and weakness.

  6. Shoulder impingement syndrome: when the rotator cuff tendons become compressed between the bones of the shoulder, causing pain and limiting movement.

  7. Shoulder dislocation: when the upper arm bone is forced out of its socket, it can cause severe pain and damage to the surrounding tissues.

  8. Fracture: a broken bone in the shoulder can cause significant pain and limit the range of motion.

  9. Pinched nerve: When a nerve in the shoulder becomes compressed or pinched, it can cause pain, numbness, and weakness in the shoulder and arm.

 

How serious is Frozen Shoulder?

 

While Frozen Shoulder is not life-threatening, it can be a significant source of discomfort and can impact a person's quality of life. It can be challenging to perform everyday tasks, such as getting dressed, driving, or reaching for objects, with the pain and stiffness associated with a Frozen Shoulder.

Fortunately, most cases of Frozen Shoulder can be successfully treated with massage/physical therapy and/or medications to manage pain and inflammation. 

 

Get in touch with our Massage Therapist Brent Ellis, RMT 

Appointments with Brent are available:

Wednesday - 8:30 am - final appointment at 7:30 pm

Friday - 8:30 am - final appointment at 3:30 pm

Relief From Frozen Shoulder

(905) 662-9835

or click below to schedule an appointment

Appointments with Brent are available:

Wednesday - 8:30 am - final appointment at 7:30 pm

Friday - 8:30 am - final appointment at 3:30 pm

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