Frozen shoulder, medically known as adhesive capsulitis is affected by 2% to 5% of the general population as per the studies (StatPearls, 2025). This is a condition adults experience especially between the ages of 40 and 60.
Patients often describe it as a gradual tightening of the shoulder joint that makes even simple tasks like combing hair, reaching overhead, or even sleeping comfortably feel impossible.
As a physiotherapist, I’ve seen how early and structured physiotherapy can help reduce pain, improve movement, and support many patients in resuming their daily activities. Often without the need for surgery. Here’s what you need to know.
What Is Frozen Shoulder?
Being “frozen” in frozen shoulder means that the shoulder joint capsule gets thicker and stiffer, making it very hard to move the shoulder. This can make it feel like the shoulder is “stuck” or “frozen” in place, hence the name.
Frozen shoulder occurs when the capsule surrounding the shoulder joint becomes inflamed, thickened, and tight, leading to pain and limited range of motion.
It typically develops in three stages:
- Freezing stage: Pain gradually worsens, and shoulder movement becomes increasingly limited.
- Frozen stage: Pain may lessen, but stiffness remains, making daily activities difficult.
- Thawing stage: Shoulder mobility slowly starts to return, and movement becomes easier over time.
Each stage can last several months, and the complete cycle may span up to 1–2 years without treatment.
Why Does It Happen?
While sometimes frozen shoulder develops without a clear reason (primary frozen shoulder or idiopathic frozen shoulder), it’s more common among:
- People with diabetes
- Individuals recovering from injury or surgery leading to prolonged immobility
- Women (more frequently than men)
- Adults aged 40–60
Why Physiotherapy Is Essential
Physiotherapy is widely recognized as an effective non-surgical approach to managing frozen shoulder.
It can help by:
- Reducing inflammation and pain
- Helping to maintain and gradually restore range of motion
- Preventing further stiffness
- Improving strength and function to support shoulder recovery
Early intervention can shorten the course of the condition and reduce disability.
Physiotherapy Techniques Used for Frozen Shoulder
A personalized treatment plan may include:
- Manual therapy: Gentle joint mobilizations and stretching performed by the physiotherapist to reduce stiffness.
- Guided exercises: Passive, assisted, and active stretching exercises designed to gradually restore motion.
- Strengthening exercises: Once pain decreases and mobility improves, targeted exercises help support shoulder muscles.
- Heat therapy or ultrasound or electrotherapy: Applied before stretching to relax tight tissues and ease discomfort.
- Education: Teaching posture correction, daily activity modifications, and safe ways to move the arm.
Every patient’s plan is unique, depending on the stage of frozen shoulder and individual health factors.
Recovery Timeline: What to Expect
Recovery from frozen shoulder is gradual, often taking several months to a year.
Typical timeline:
- Early stages: Focus on pain relief and gentle movement
- Mid stages: Emphasis on mobility and flexibility
- Later stages: Strengthening and restoring full function
Consistency and patience are key. Regular sessions, combined with home exercises, lead to the best outcomes.
Tips for Self-Care at Home
- Use a warm compress before exercises to loosen tissues
- Practice gentle stretching as recommended by your physiotherapist
- Avoid sudden jerky movements or heavy lifting
- Maintain good posture, especially during work and sleep
When to Seek Help
If you notice:
- Shoulder pain lasting more than a few weeks
- Significant restriction of movement
- Pain disturbing your sleep or daily life
Consulting a qualified physiotherapist early may help prevent worsening stiffness and support faster recovery.
Final Thoughts
Frozen shoulder can feel discouraging, but with a structured physiotherapy approach, many patients experience significant improvement in function and daily life, often without needing surgery.
If you suspect you might have frozen shoulder, don’t wait. A professional physiotherapy assessment can set you on the right path to recovery.
Note: This blog is for educational purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice. Please consult a licensed physiotherapist or physician for personalized assessment.