The articular shoulder capsule (a sac of the ligaments surrounding the joint) swells and stiffens causing restricted mobility for the shoulder. Frozen shoulder, otherwise known as adhesive copsulitis is a condition specific to the shoulder joint. Frozen shoulder may develop when you stop using the joint as normal
Risk factors and those more prone to suffering from frozen shoulder are:
- Those over 40 years old
- Women (especially postmenopausal women)
- Recovery from an arm fracture or surgery
- Those with diabetes
- Having suffered from a stroke
- Hyperthyroidism
- Hypothyroidism
- Parkinson’s disease
- CVD (cardiovascular disease)
When treating frozen shoulder applying heat followed by gentle stretching is beneficial in starting the healing process. One should then perform range-of-motion exercises in order to loosen up the joint and prevent further stiffening by keeping up movement in the area. To reduce the swelling in between movements ice the area for 10-15 minutes at a time.
Here at the Madison Sports Injury Clinic located in North York we provide physiotherapy treatment which can assist you in finding the proper range of motion techniques for a speedy and safe recovery. Frozen shoulder can take a year or more to recover from so do not rush treatment, just do your best to ensure you are getting the proper care needed for your pain. Call us today to book your appointment and start the long road to recovery with proper care!