Frozen Shoulder in Scarborough

Frozen shoulder, also known as adhesive capsulitis, is a condition that causes stiffness, discomfort, and restricted movement in the shoulder joint. It develops gradually and can significantly impact daily activities. Without proper treatment, it may take months or even years to regain full mobility. Our clinic provides therapy for frozen shoulder in Scarborough, offering various treatments to help restore shoulder function and improve movement.

Causes and Symptoms

Frozen shoulder occurs when the connective tissue surrounding the shoulder joint thickens and tightens, restricting movement. The exact cause is not always clear, but several factors contribute to its development:

  • Injury or Surgery: Immobilization of the shoulder due to injury or surgery increases the risk.
  • Medical Conditions: Diabetes, thyroid disorders, and cardiovascular conditions are linked to a higher likelihood of frozen shoulder.
  • Prolonged Inactivity: Lack of movement due to pain, fractures, or post-surgical recovery can lead to stiffness.
  • Aging: It is more common in individuals over 40, especially in women.

Symptoms develop in three stages:

  1. Freezing Stage: Gradual onset of discomfort and increasing stiffness. Shoulder movement becomes more difficult.
  2. Frozen Stage: Stiffness is at its peak, limiting daily tasks. Discomfort may slightly decrease, but movement remains restricted.
  3. Thawing Stage: Mobility gradually improves, and the shoulder starts regaining normal function.

Therapy Options for Frozen Shoulder

A structured rehabilitation plan is essential to reduce stiffness, restore mobility, and prevent long-term restriction. Our clinic provides multiple therapy options to help manage frozen shoulder.

Physiotherapy

Physiotherapy is one of the most effective treatments for frozen shoulder. It focuses on improving range of motion, strengthening the shoulder muscles, and reducing stiffness through guided exercises and hands-on techniques.

Key physiotherapy techniques include:

  • Stretching exercises to loosen tight tissues
  • Strengthening exercises to support the shoulder joint
  • Manual therapy to improve joint mobility
  • Postural correction to reduce unnecessary strain on the shoulder

Orthopedic Physiotherapy

For cases where mobility is significantly limited, orthopedic physiotherapy helps target deep joint restrictions. Techniques such as joint mobilization and soft tissue therapy work to improve flexibility and restore movement.

Shockwave Therapy

Shockwave therapy helps promote tissue healing and improves circulation in the affected area. This non-invasive approach can reduce stiffness and discomfort, allowing for better mobility during recovery.

Chiropractic Care and Massage Therapy

Chiropractic adjustments help improve shoulder alignment, reduce stress on the joint, and restore function. Adjustments combined with movement techniques can help improve mobility over time.

Massage therapy is beneficial for reducing muscle tightness and improving circulation. It helps relax the surrounding muscles and supports the effectiveness of physiotherapy exercises.

Custom Orthotics and Bracing

In some cases, improper posture and biomechanics contribute to shoulder strain. Custom orthotics can improve posture and reduce excessive stress on the upper body, while bracing provides additional support for stability during movement.

Phases of Recovery

Frozen shoulder treatment progresses through different stages:

  1. Pain Management: Focus on reducing discomfort through gentle movement and manual therapy.
  2. Mobility Restoration: Gradual stretching and joint mobilization to regain movement.
  3. Strength Building: Strengthening exercises to support the joint and prevent recurrence.
  4. Return to Full Activity: Final rehabilitation phase ensuring safe shoulder function in daily tasks.

Importance of a Guided Recovery Plan

Without proper intervention, frozen shoulder can persist for an extended period, limiting daily activities. A guided recovery plan ensures that stiffness is addressed early and mobility is gradually restored. Factors that influence recovery time include:

  • Severity of movement restriction
  • Adherence to therapy sessions
  • Overall health and activity level
  • Presence of underlying conditions

Frozen Shoulder Treatment in Scarborough

If you are experiencing stiffness, discomfort, or limited movement in your shoulder, therapy can help restore function. Our clinic offers treatment for frozen shoulder in Scarborough, providing physiotherapy, chiropractic care, massage therapy, and other supportive treatments. Contact us today to begin your recovery and regain full movement in your shoulder.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS?

What are the common symptoms of frozen shoulder?

Symptoms typically include shoulder pain, difficulty moving the arm, stiffness, and a gradual loss of motion in the shoulder, which may limit daily activities.

What causes frozen shoulder?

The exact cause is often unknown, but it can occur after an injury, surgery, or periods of immobilization. Certain medical conditions, such as diabetes or thyroid disorders, may also increase the risk.

How is frozen shoulder diagnosed?

Diagnosis usually involves a physical examination to assess shoulder movement and pain levels, along with a review of medical history. Imaging tests, such as X-rays or MRI, may be used to rule out other conditions.