Frozen Shoulder: Causes, Symptoms, and How Physical Therapy Can Help You Heal

If you’ve ever tried to reach overhead, put on a jacket, or even comb your hair and felt a sharp pain or stiffness in your shoulder, you might be experiencing frozen shoulder — also known as adhesive capsulitis. This condition can make everyday tasks frustrating and even impossible without pain. The good news? Physical therapy can be one of the most effective treatments for getting your movement back and reducing pain.

What Is Frozen Shoulder?

Frozen shoulder occurs when the connective tissue around your shoulder joint (the shoulder capsule) thickens and tightens, restricting movement. Over time, scar tissue can form, and the shoulder joint’s range of motion becomes increasingly limited.

It often develops gradually and typically has three stages:

1. Freezing Stage: Shoulder pain increases, and range of motion begins to decrease.

2. Frozen Stage: Pain may lessen, but stiffness remains, making daily activities difficult.

3. Thawing Stage: Gradual return of movement and function.

   
   

Common Causes and Risk Factors

While the exact cause isn’t always clear, frozen shoulder is more common in:

• People between ages 40–60

• Individuals with diabetes or thyroid disorders

• Those recovering from shoulder injuries or surgeries

• People who have had their arm immobilized for a long time

  
  

How Physical Therapy Can Help

Physical therapy is often the first line of treatment for frozen shoulder — and for good reason. A skilled PT can:

1. Reduce Pain and Inflammation

• Use gentle manual therapy to decrease tension

• Provide modalities like heat therapy or ultrasound to promote healing

2. Restore Range of Motion

• Guide you through targeted stretching and mobility exercises

• Progressively increase movement without aggravating symptoms

3. Strengthen Supporting Muscles

• Build stability in the shoulder and upper back to protect the joint

• Improve posture to reduce strain on the shoulder

4. Educate and Empower You

• Teach you home exercises to keep making progress between sessions

• Help you avoid movements that could slow your recovery

Why Acting Early Matters

The sooner you start treatment, the better your outcome. Waiting too long can mean more scar tissue, longer recovery times, and more pain. Early intervention with physical therapy can speed up healing and help you avoid invasive procedures like surgery.

Get Back to Living Without Shoulder Pain

At Healing Arts Physical Therapy, our experienced team works with you one-on-one to create a treatment plan tailored to your stage of frozen shoulder and your goals. We focus on hands-on care, personalized exercise programs, and education so you can get back to the activities you love — pain-free.

Don’t wait for your shoulder to “thaw” on its own. Call us today at (530) 329-8490