Frozen shoulder, also known as adhesive capsulitis, is a painful shoulder condition that can limit your mobility, disrupt your sleep, and affect your daily activities. It occurs when the capsule that surrounds the shoulder joint thickens and tightens, causing pain and stiffness that can last for several months or even years. Unfortunately, there is no quick fix for frozen shoulder, and the recovery process can be challenging. Some people may wonder if it is okay to push through the pain and stiffness and continue their normal activities. In this blog post, we will discuss if it is safe to push through frozen shoulder and what the experts have to say about it.
First of all, it is essential to understand that pushing through frozen shoulder symptoms can exacerbate and prolong the recovery process. According to physiotherapists, forcing your shoulder to move beyond its restricted range of motion can damage the inflamed tissues and cause more pain and inflammation. It can also lead to compensatory movements that put additional strain on other parts of your body, such as your neck, back, and hips. Moreover, pushing through frozen shoulder may delay your recovery by creating a cycle of pain, tension, and immobility that can be hard to break.
Secondly, chiropractors suggest that pushing through frozen shoulder can do more harm than good. They advise patients to listen to their bodies and respect their limitations to avoid aggravating the condition. Chiropractors also emphasize the importance of gentle mobilization and stretching exercises that can improve the blood flow and nutrients to the affected tissues, reduce inflammation, and increase the range of motion gradually. By following a structured and progressive rehabilitation program, you can speed up your recovery and prevent future recurrences.
Thirdly, it is vital to seek professional guidance before pushing through frozen shoulder. A physiotherapist or chiropractor can assess your condition, determine the underlying cause, and provide you with a customized treatment plan that suits your needs and goals. They can also teach you proper posture, body mechanics, and movement patterns that can reduce the stress and strain on your shoulder joint and prevent further damage. Furthermore, a rehabilitation specialist can guide you through the different stages of frozen shoulder, from the painful stage to the thawing stage to the recovery stage, and adjust your treatment accordingly.
Fourthly, it is crucial to be patient and persistent when recovering from frozen shoulder. This condition can take several months to resolve, and there may be setbacks and plateaus along the way. However, with the proper care and guidance, you can regain your shoulder mobility and function and return to your normal activities without pain or stiffness. Remember, pushing through frozen shoulder is not advisable, but progressive and gentle mobilization and exercises can help you regain your strength and mobility safely and effectively.
Frozen shoulder is a challenging and painful condition that requires patience, persistence, and professional guidance to overcome. Pushing through frozen shoulder can worsen your symptoms and delay your recovery. Instead, it is best to listen to your body, seek professional advice, and follow a structured and progressive rehabilitation plan that includes gentle mobilization, stretching, and strengthening exercises. By doing so, you can regain your shoulder mobility and function and enjoy life without pain or limitations. If you are suffering from frozen shoulder, call us today to book an appointment with a physiotherapist or chiropractor and start your recovery journey.
If you have any questions or would like to explore further, please book a free, no-charge online appointment with either myself, Sakshi Rupani, BPT, PT, or another Kitchener physiotherapy practitioner at CARESPACE. We are happy to listen and are here to help!
