Frozen shoulder, also known as adhesive capsulitis, is a condition that affects the shoulder joint causing pain and stiffness. It occurs when the shoulder capsule, a network of ligaments that surrounds the shoulder joint, begins to thicken and tighten, limiting your shoulder movement. If left untreated, it can last for several months or even years and can cause significant discomfort and pain. One common question that patients with frozen shoulders often ask is whether the pain persists even when they are resting. In this blog, we will discuss whether frozen shoulder hurts when resting and how you can manage the pain.
Does Frozen Shoulder Hurt When Resting?
Yes, frozen shoulder can cause pain even when you are resting. When you are asleep or sitting for an extended period, the shoulder can become stiff and painful due to lack of movement. Besides, the frozen shoulder condition causes microscopic tears in your shoulder capsule, leading to inflammation and pain. As a result, when you rest your shoulder, this inflammation and stiffness can trigger pain and discomfort, making you restless.
How to Manage Frozen Shoulder Pain When Resting
Applying Heat Therapy
Heat therapy can be an effective way to manage frozen shoulder pain when resting. It helps increase blood flow to the affected area, easing inflammation and reducing stiffness. Using a hot water bottle or warm towel to apply heat on your shoulder is an easy way to soothe the pain. However, you should avoid using heat therapy for more than 20 minutes as it may lead to skin burns.
Gentle Stretching
Gentle stretching of your shoulder joint can also help alleviate pain and stiffness. Doing slow and controlled shoulder circles or lifting your arm slowly above your head can help ease the discomfort. However, you should avoid pushing yourself too hard during the stretches as this may lead to more pain and inflammation.
Over-the-counter Painkillers
If the pain is unbearable, over-the-counter painkillers such as aspirin or ibuprofen can help ease the pain. They work by reducing inflammation and swelling, making your shoulder feel better. However, you should avoid taking these medications for an extended period as they can have side effects, especially if you have other medical conditions.
Consult a Professional
Consulting a physiotherapist or chiropractor can be an effective way to manage frozen shoulder pain and discomfort. Besides, they can teach you specific exercises and stretches to relieve pain and prevent further injury. They can also provide you with a tailored treatment plan to fit your unique needs.
Having a frozen shoulder can be challenging and can affect your daily routine, but with the right treatment, you can manage the pain and recover from the condition. Resting can make the pain worse, but with heat therapy, gentle stretching, over-the-counter painkillers, and seeking help from a professional, you can manage the pain and alleviate the discomfort, leading to a better quality of life. Remember to take care of yourself and seek medical attention if the pain persists or worsens.
If you have any questions or would like to explore further, please book a free, no-charge online appointment with either myself, Nitin Nair, BPT, R/TRO DIP, PT, or another Kitchener physiotherapist at CARESPACE. We are happy to listen and are here to help!
