Frozen Shoulder (Adhesive Capsulitis) Treatment

Frozen Shoulder

Frozen shoulder is a painful condition with significant restrictions in movements at the shoulder joint. The shoulder capsule becomes tightened and inflexible. Progression of frozen shoulder happens in three stages:


Initial (Acute) Stage – capsule of the shoulder becomes painfully contracted

Subacute stage – fibrosis (excess tissue) stage where fibres of muscle/tissue holds things together

Chronic stage –where the inflexibility gradually releases

Frozen shoulder if left untreated can take up to two years to heal.

Therefore for ideal results we recommend that treatment for frozen shoulder should begin immediately. If the condition is caught early treatment may only take several weeks to correct.

Causes Of Frozen Shoulder

  • Trauma or disorder of the shoulder such as an impingement
  • Rotator cuff tendinitis can lead to frozen shoulder
  • Trigger points in the rotator cuff muscles
  • Postural dysfunction
  • Overuse or overexertion of the shoulder
  • Disease following shoulder injury or where shoulder has become immobilized (preventing movement such as shoulder dislocation or surgery)

Signs And Symptoms Of Frozen Shoulder

  • An early symptom is a pain or tenderness in the shoulder area
  • A sensation of tightness in the shoulder especially when putting the arm up and back as if throwing a ball
  • Possible pain in the back of the wrist caused by subscapularis trigger points
  • As the condition progresses the pain may diminish although other symptoms worsen such as the tightness of the shoulder
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Treatment For Frozen Shoulder

  • Depending on the stage of frozen shoulder whether in the acute or chronic stage treatment will focus on either pain/inflammation relief, or in maintain/restoring range of motion and releasing the tightness/adhesiveness of the shoulder
  • Physiotherapy, acupuncture and massage therapy can all successfully treat frozen shoulder, however for pain relief acupuncture is very helpful and physiotherapy will help to restore the flexibility of the shoulder


If you have any questions about Frozen Shoulder contact our staff at Dynamic Physiotherapy.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Do you have a question about our service? Do not hesitate to give us a call and also consult our list of frequently asked questions!

  • What is frozen shoulder?

    To see any of our health practitioners we do not require a doctor’s referral. However some services that are covered by your extended health plan may require a doctor’s referral in order to be reimbursed for expenses.

  • What causes it?

    You should seek treatment if pain lasts more than a few days, returns frequently, or limits your movement.

  • Can physiotherapy help?

    Yes, physiotherapy targets the root cause to improve mobility, strength, and long-term function.

  • How long does recovery take?

    Direct billing is available to some insurance companies. Currently most plans from Sunlife, Great West Life and Manulife (beginning Jan.1.14) offer direct billing. All insurance plans related to Motor Vehicle Accident claims allow direct billing. If the claim is an accident that is work related, Workplace Safety and Insurance Board also allows direct billing.

  • Is early treatment important?

    Yes, for faster recovery.