Despite much research, the precise causes are still unknown. The joint capsule becomes inflamed and gets tighter. There are links to

• post surgery,
• diabetes,
• heart disease
• and Parkinson’s.

The most common symptoms of frozen shoulder are:

• Pain and stiffness 
• Pain worse at night 
• Unable to move arm/ shoulder in most ranges of movement 

This condition can take months and up to two years to settle. It’s important you see an osteopath or physiotherapist to have a thorough assessment and determine the stage you are at.  If you are not improving enough we might suggest stronger pain relief, a corticosteroid injection or joint distension to reduce the pain and inflammation so the manual treatment has a chance to work. In general, you have better chances after the freezing stage. 

• Pain relief avoid pain provoking movements, painkillers.
• Improving movement once the pain has subsided enough.
• Ongoing hands on treatment including stretching, exercises, posture re-education.

What we can do for you:

We have seen all sorts of presentations and everyone heals at different rates. Treatment is aimed at increasing movement in all ranges and combinations. We will address adjacent restricted joints and tight areas that might contribute to limiting movement. We will check all muscles and joints that influence shoulder range of movement to give you the best chances to heal and restore full range of motion as quickly as possible. 

Frozen shoulder goes through 3 phases: 

Freezing stage, 6-9 months: severe pain, limited in all movements, getting worse, worse at night 

Frozen stage, 4-12 months: less pain, stiffness worse, all movements difficult

Thawing stage, 6months-2 years: less pain, range of motion improving, on way back to normal