Frozen shoulder, or adhesive capsulitis, is a condition that causes pain, stiffness, and reduced movement in the shoulder joint — and it can last for months or even years if left untreated. It typically affects people between 40 and 60 and can develop after injury, surgery, or sometimes for no clear reason.
There are three key phases:
-
Freezing Phase (6–9 months) – Pain develops gradually and worsens over time. Movement becomes limited.
-
Frozen Phase (4–6 months) – Pain may reduce slightly, but the shoulder becomes stiff and hard to move.
-
Thawing Phase (6–12 months) – Movement slowly starts to return, but this can take months.
Osteopathy can help throughout each stage. During the painful “freezing” phase, we focus on gentle manual therapy to reduce muscle tension, improve circulation, and manage discomfort. In the “frozen” and “thawing” phases, hands-on techniques and tailored exercises aim to restore mobility and prevent further stiffness.
Early intervention is key — the sooner we start, the more we can help minimise long-term restriction. If you think you’re developing frozen shoulder, don’t wait for it to “just go away.” Book an assessment to understand what’s happening and how we can support your recovery.
Recent Comments