Physical therapy is one of the most effective treatments for frozen shoulder, also known as adhesive capsulitis. It can help reduce pain and improve range of motion. It can also gradually restore shoulder function. Recovery may take several months, but physical therapy can help you safely regain mobility.
Frozen shoulder develops gradually and may worsen before it gets better. Knowing what to expect from physical therapy can make the recovery process easier to manage.
What Is a Frozen Shoulder?
Frozen shoulder occurs when the connective tissue surrounding the shoulder joint becomes inflamed and tight. This can cause significant pain and stiffness. Over time, the joint capsule may thicken and make it harder to move your arm.
Everyday activities can become difficult. You may struggle to reach overhead, get dressed, or fasten a seat belt.
Frozen shoulder can sometimes be mistaken for other shoulder conditions. A rotator cuff strain vs. tear can also cause shoulder pain and limited movement. A proper evaluation can help determine what is causing your symptoms.
What Happens During Physical Therapy?
Your first appointment typically begins with an evaluation. A physical therapist will assess your shoulder’s range of motion, strength, and pain levels. They will also look at how your symptoms affect everyday activities. From there, they can create a treatment plan based on your stage of recovery.
Treatment may include gentle stretching, manual therapy, and range-of-motion exercises. Strengthening exercises can be added as your mobility improves. Your therapist may also give you exercises to perform at home between appointments.
How Long Does Physical Therapy Take?
Frozen shoulders usually improve gradually. Many patients attend physical therapy for several months. However, the timeline can vary based on the severity of your stiffness and your response to treatment.
Progress may feel slow at first. Staying consistent with therapy can help you continue improving your mobility and pain.
Frozen shoulder and rotator cuff injuries are different conditions, but both can require time and patience during rehabilitation. If you’re recovering from a tendon injury, learn more about how long physical therapy takes for a rotator cuff injury.
What Can You Do to Support Recovery?
What you do between physical therapy appointments can also affect your recovery. Complete your prescribed home exercises and stay active within your therapist’s recommendations. Avoid movements that significantly increase your pain.
Some soreness after stretching may be normal. However, severe or lingering pain should be discussed with your physical therapist. Your treatment plan can be adjusted when necessary.
When Should You Seek Treatment?
Consider scheduling an evaluation if shoulder pain or stiffness lasts for several weeks. You should also seek treatment if your symptoms make everyday tasks difficult. Early treatment may help maintain shoulder mobility and prevent stiffness from becoming more limiting.
Severe or worsening pain may require additional medical evaluation. Other concerning symptoms shouldn’t be ignored either. Our guide to red flags for shoulder pain explains when you should seek medical attention.
According to the Mayo Clinic, treatment for frozen shoulder focuses on controlling pain and preserving as much shoulder movement as possible.
Start Your Recovery with Physical Therapy
Physical therapy can help improve mobility and reduce pain caused by frozen shoulder. A rehabilitation program can gradually restore shoulder function and make everyday movement easier.
If you’re experiencing persistent shoulder pain or stiffness, contact Innovative Healthcare Centers to schedule an evaluation and learn whether physical therapy may help.