Frozen shoulder, also known as adhesive capsulitis, is a condition that causes pain and stiffness in the shoulder joint. It can significantly impact your daily activities, from dressing to lifting objects. At Limp In Leap Out Physiotherapy & Wellness, we understand the challenges this condition brings and are committed to helping our patients regain their mobility and quality of life as swiftly as possible.
Understanding Frozen Shoulder
Frozen shoulder is a self-limiting inflammatory condition that affects the shoulder capsule. The connective tissue surrounding the shoulder becomes inflamed, leading to pain and reduced mobility. This condition typically progresses through three stages:
Freezing Stage: Pain gradually increases, and shoulder movement becomes more limited.Frozen Stage: Pain may begin to diminish, but the shoulder becomes stiffer.Thawing Stage: Mobility gradually improves.How Can a Clinical Physiotherapist Help?
A clinical physiotherapist plays a crucial role in managing frozen shoulder. At Limp In Leap Out Physiotherapy & Wellness, our experienced team employs various techniques to alleviate pain and restore function. Here's how we can help:
1. Comprehensive Assessment
Our first step is a thorough assessment to understand the severity of your condition and identify the best treatment approach. This includes:
Range of Motion Tests: To determine the extent of stiffness and pain.Strength Testing: To assess muscle strength around the shoulder.Functional Evaluation: To see how the condition affects your daily activities.2. Personalized Treatment Plan
Based on the assessment, we create a tailored treatment plan that may include:
Manual Therapy: Techniques such as joint mobilization and soft tissue massage to reduce pain and improve mobility.Exercise Therapy: Customized exercises to stretch and strengthen the shoulder muscles.Modalities: Use of heat, ice, and electrical stimulation to manage pain and inflammation.3. Pain Management
Managing pain is crucial for effective treatment. Our physiotherapists use a combination of methods, including:
Heat and Ice Therapy: To reduce inflammation and alleviate pain.Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (TENS): To provide pain relief through electrical impulses.4. Guided Exercises
We guide you through specific exercises designed to improve shoulder mobility and strength. These may include:
Pendulum Exercises: To gently increase shoulder movement.Stretching Exercises: To improve flexibility.Strengthening Exercises: To build muscle strength around the shoulder joint.5. Education and Advice
Understanding your condition is key to managing it effectively. We provide:
Education on Frozen Shoulder: Information on the stages and expected progression.Posture and Activity Modifications: Advice on how to adjust your activities to reduce strain on your shoulder.Home Exercise Programs: Customized exercises you can perform at home to aid recovery.Tips for Managing Frozen Shoulder at Home
In addition to professional treatment, there are several steps you can take at home to support your recovery:
Stay Active: Keep your shoulder moving with gentle exercises, but avoid activities that cause pain.Apply Heat or Ice: Use heat to relax tight muscles and ice to reduce inflammation.Maintain Good Posture: Avoid slouching and ensure your workstation is ergonomically friendly.Follow Your Physiotherapist’s Advice: Adhere to the prescribed exercises and activities to enhance your recovery.Book Your Consultation Today
At Limp In Leap Out Physiotherapy & Wellness, we are dedicated to helping you overcome frozen shoulder and return to your normal activities. If you're experiencing shoulder pain and stiffness, don't wait. Contact us today via our contact page or book an appointment online. Our clinics in Belfield and Croydon serve many nearby Inner West suburbs, including Belmore, Strathfield, and Croydon Park.
Let us help you leap out of pain and back into your life!