Frozen shoulder, medically known as adhesive capsulitis, is a condition that can significantly affect shoulder movement and everyday activities. Many people notice increasing shoulder stiffness, discomfort and difficulty performing simple tasks such as reaching overhead, putting on a jacket, fastening clothing or reaching behind their back.

If you are experiencing symptoms of frozen shoulder, understanding what is happening and seeking appropriate advice early can help you make informed decisions about your care. At Belconnen Physiotherapy Clinic in Canberra, physiotherapy can play an important role in assessing shoulder symptoms and developing an individualised management approach based on your needs.

What is frozen shoulder (adhesive capsulitis)?

Frozen shoulder is a condition where the capsule surrounding the shoulder joint becomes irritated and tight, leading to pain and a gradual loss of movement. The shoulder joint normally allows a wide range of movement, but changes within the joint capsule can restrict how freely the shoulder moves.

Frozen shoulder commonly progresses through different phases:

• Freezing phase: Pain may gradually increase, and shoulder movement begins to become more limited.

• Frozen phase: Stiffness is often the main concern, with reduced ability to move the shoulder.

• Thawing phase: Shoulder movement may gradually improve over time.

The duration and experience of frozen shoulder can vary between individuals. A physiotherapist can help assess your symptoms and provide guidance on appropriate strategies for managing your condition.

What are the common symptoms of frozen shoulder?

The most common signs of adhesive capsulitis include:

• Shoulder pain, which may be worse at night or during certain movements

• Increasing stiffness in the shoulder joint

• Difficulty reaching overhead or behind the back

• Reduced ability to perform daily activities

• A feeling that the shoulder is “stuck” or restricted

A key feature of frozen shoulder is that both active movement (moving the shoulder yourself) and passive movement (movement assisted by another person) can become limited.

If you have ongoing shoulder pain or stiffness, a physiotherapy assessment can help determine whether your symptoms are consistent with frozen shoulder or another shoulder condition.

What causes frozen shoulder?

The exact cause of frozen shoulder is not always clear. It can occur without an obvious injury, although some factors may increase the likelihood of developing the condition.

Frozen shoulder may be associated with:

• Previous shoulder injuries or periods of reduced shoulder movement

• Some medical conditions, including diabetes and thyroid disorders

• Recovery following shoulder surgery or immobilisation

• Increasing age, particularly between middle adulthood and older age

Having one or more risk factors does not necessarily mean someone will develop frozen shoulder. A proper assessment is important to understand the individual factors contributing to your symptoms.

How can physiotherapy help with frozen shoulder?

Physiotherapy for frozen shoulder focuses on helping you understand your condition, maintain or improve movement where appropriate, and support your ability to complete daily activities.

Treatment approaches may include:

Education and advice

Understanding the typical progression of frozen shoulder can help reduce uncertainty and allow you to make informed choices about managing your symptoms. Your physiotherapist can explain what may be contributing to your shoulder pain and stiffness.

Individualised exercise programs

A physiotherapist can provide exercises designed around your current level of movement, symptoms and goals. These may focus on:

• Maintaining available shoulder movement

• Improving shoulder mobility gradually

• Building strength as movement improves

• Supporting confidence with everyday activities

Exercises should be tailored to the individual, as pushing too aggressively may not be appropriate for everyone with frozen shoulder.

Movement strategies and hands-on treatment

Depending on your presentation, your physiotherapist may use techniques such as gentle movement strategies or hands-on therapy to help support shoulder function. Your treatment plan will be based on your assessment findings and personal goals.

How long does frozen shoulder take to improve?

Many people ask, “How long does frozen shoulder last?” The answer varies. Frozen shoulder can change gradually over months or longer periods, and recovery timelines differ from person to person.

Factors that may influence recovery include:

• The stage of frozen shoulder

• Your overall health

• How much shoulder movement is affected

• Your ability to follow an appropriate exercise and management plan

A physiotherapist can help you understand your current stage and provide realistic guidance about managing your symptoms.

When should I see a physiotherapist for frozen shoulder?

You may benefit from seeing a physiotherapist if you have:

• Persistent shoulder pain

• Increasing shoulder stiffness

• Difficulty completing normal daily activities

• Reduced shoulder movement that is affecting your quality of life

It is also important to seek professional advice if shoulder symptoms are sudden, severe, or associated with other concerning signs.

Frequently asked questions about frozen shoulder

Can frozen shoulder get better without treatment?

Some people experience improvement over time, but seeking advice from a physiotherapist may help you better understand your condition and identify appropriate strategies to manage symptoms and maintain function.

Should I stretch a frozen shoulder?

Gentle movement may be helpful for some people with frozen shoulder, but the right approach depends on your symptoms and the stage of the condition. A physiotherapist can guide you on suitable exercises and movement strategies.

Is frozen shoulder the same as a rotator cuff injury?

No. Frozen shoulder and rotator cuff injuries are different shoulder conditions, although they can share some symptoms such as pain and difficulty moving the arm. An assessment can help clarify the likely cause of your symptoms.

Book a frozen shoulder physiotherapy appointment in Canberra

If shoulder pain and stiffness are affecting your daily activities, the team at Belconnen Physiotherapy Clinic can assess your symptoms and discuss appropriate physiotherapy options.

Located in Canberra, our clinic provides personalised physiotherapy care to help you better understand your condition and work towards improving shoulder function.

To book an appointment for frozen shoulder physiotherapy in Canberra, contact Belconnen Physiotherapy Clinic on (02) 6251 3487.

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