Frozen shoulder, also known as adhesive capsulitis, is a condition that causes stiffness and pain in the shoulder joint. It can affect anyone, but it’s most commonly seen in people over 40 years old. Frozen shoulder typically develops slowly over time and can last for months or even years if left untreated. In this blog post, we will discuss how to recognize the symptoms of frozen shoulder and when to seek treatment from a physiotherapist or chiropractor.
1) Stiffness and Pain – The primary symptom of frozen shoulder is stiffness in the shoulder joint. You may find it difficult to move your arm or lift objects above your head. You may also experience pain or discomfort in your shoulder area, which can be severe enough to disrupt your daily activities.
2) Limited Range of Motion – As frozen shoulder progresses, you may notice a decrease in range of motion in your affected arm. You may not be able to reach behind your back or perform simple tasks like brushing your hair without experiencing pain or discomfort.
3) Painful Nights – Many people with frozen shoulder report experiencing more pain at night than during the day. This can make it difficult to get a good night’s rest and can lead to fatigue and irritability during the day.
4) Gradual Onset – Frozen shoulder typically develops gradually over time, often starting with mild stiffness or discomfort that worsens over several weeks or months. If you’ve noticed a gradual decrease in mobility or an increase in pain over time, it’s possible that you have frozen shoulder.
5) Diagnosis and Treatment – If you suspect that you have frozen shoulder, it’s important to seek treatment from a physiotherapist or chiropractor as soon as possible. They will perform a physical examination and may recommend imaging tests like X-rays or MRI scans to confirm the diagnosis. Treatment options may include physiotherapy, chiropractic adjustments, or in more severe cases, surgery.
Frozen shoulder can be a debilitating condition that affects your daily life. If you’re experiencing stiffness and pain in your shoulder joint, limited range of motion, painful nights, or gradual onset of symptoms, it’s important to seek treatment from a qualified healthcare provider like a physiotherapist or chiropractor who can help you discover the cause of your frozen shoulder. With the right diagnosis and treatment plan, you can alleviate your symptoms and get back to living your life pain-free. Don’t wait – book an appointment today if you suspect that you have frozen shoulder.
