Frozen shoulder, a condition characterised by a significant restriction in shoulder movement, can be a frustrating and limiting experience. We understand its impact on your daily activities and overall well-being. This article empowers you to take control of your recovery journey by providing a deeper understanding of frozen shoulder.
By understanding what causes a frozen shoulder, you can work with our chiropractors to develop an effective treatment plan and regain full mobility.
Who Develops Frozen Shoulders More Frequently
Women are diagnosed with frozen shoulder more frequently than men, particularly between the ages of 40 and 60.
Common Frozen Shoulder Causes
Medical Conditions: Diabetes, thyroid issues and Parkinson’s disease.
Previous Shoulder Issues: A history of shoulder injuries, rotator cuff tears, or surgeries.
Immobilisation: Keeping your shoulder immobile for extended periods, like after a stroke or surgery on another body part requiring a sling.
Autoimmune Disorders: Conditions like rheumatoid arthritis.
Genetics: A family history of frozen shoulder.
What Is Frozen Shoulder
The shoulder joint is a ball-and-socket structure surrounded by a connective tissue capsule. This capsule becomes inflamed and thickened, restricting the smooth gliding motion of the shoulder joint. This restricted movement leads to the characteristic symptoms of a frozen shoulder.
Frozen Shoulder Symptoms
- Dull ache: As the condition progresses, the pain can intensify, limiting daily activities like combing your hair, getting dressed, or reaching for objects overhead.
- Shoulder stiffness: The shoulder joint loses its flexibility. Simple movements like raising your arm sideways, reaching behind your back, or scratching your shoulder blade become difficult.
- Limited Range of Motion: A frozen shoulder restricts the joint’s active and passive movements. This means raising your arm becomes challenging, but someone else moving your arm for you (passive movement) will also encounter resistance due to the stiffness.
- Night Pain: One of the most frustrating aspects of a frozen shoulder is the potential for worsening pain at night. This can disrupt sleep and make it difficult to find comfortable positions.
- Weakness: The muscles surrounding the shoulder joint can weaken due to disuse caused by pain and stiffness.
How To Treat Frozen Shoulder
Frozen shoulder progresses through three stages, each lasting several months:
1. Freezing Stage: This stage starts with worsening pain and a steady decline in shoulder movement.
2. Frozen Stage: Pain may plateau or even improve slightly in this stage. However, shoulder stiffness becomes most severe, significantly limiting movement.
3. Thawing Stage: Gradually, the shoulder capsule loosens, and the range of motion improves. This stage can take up to two years or more.
Most patients may have questions on how to cure frozen shoulder quickly, but there’s no magic bullet to cure frozen shoulder quickly.
At Elite Spine Centres, we understand the challenges frozen shoulder can present. As a long-time partner in your wellness journey, we offer a comprehensive approach to frozen shoulder treatment. Our experienced chiropractors and physical therapists will work with you to develop a personalised treatment plan that addresses your specific needs and goals.
We utilise various evidence-based techniques, including manual therapy, physical therapy, and frozen shoulder exercises, to manage pain, improve mobility and restore full function to your shoulder. We focus on relieving your pain, helping you prevent future occurrences, and maintaining long-term shoulder health.
Why Choose Elite Spine Centres For Shoulder Recovery
With Elite Spine Centres, you can regain entire movement and freedom in your shoulder. Our team believes in a structured yet personalised approach to your frozen shoulder recovery centred around our Signature Functional Correction Method (FCM).
Signature Functional Correction Method (FCM) combines the best modern chiropractic strategies to address the root cause of your pain, not just the symptoms.
Step 1: In-Depth Initial Consultation – Our comfortable environment and open communication ensure you feel heard. We thoroughly understand your symptoms and educate you about your condition before creating a treatment plan together.
Step 2: Accurate Assessment of Root Causes – We go beyond the shoulder, assessing your body’s mechanics to pinpoint the root cause of your frozen shoulder. This precise diagnosis allows us to address the source of your pain, not just manage symptoms.
Step 3: Personalised Plan for Faster Recovery – We tailor your treatment plan, considering your needs and goals. This plan adapts as you progress, focusing on increasing your range of motion and strengthening muscles for a faster return to your activities.
Step 4: Holistic Care for Long-Term Results – Our FCM approach combines manual adjustments, advanced technologies (if needed), and personalised lifestyle advice. We also provide gentle shoulder exercises to prevent recurrence and promote healthy posture for long-term joint health.
Conclusion
Don’t let a frozen shoulder limit your life. While it can be frustrating, it is manageable with the right approach. This article has equipped you with knowledge about the causes and symptoms of a frozen shoulder. Now, it’s time to take action.
At Elite Spine Centers, we understand the challenges of a frozen shoulder and are here to guide you towards recovery. Our experienced team utilises a personalised approach centred around our Signature Functional Correction Method (FCM).
Schedule a consultation with Elite Spine Centers today and experience the freedom of movement you deserve. Together, we can help you regain your full range of motion, reduce pain, and return to enjoying the activities you love.
Explore holistic healthcare options with Elite Spine Centres and take control of your health today.