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Frozen shoulder is a condition where the shoulder joint becomes stiff and painful, and movement is lost. While it can resolve on its own over time, it can take months or even years without targeted intervention.
What Exactly is a Frozen Shoulder?
Adhesive capsulitis, or frozen shoulder, occurs when the connective tissue surrounding the shoulder joint becomes inflamed, thickened and tight. This restricts movement and typically goes through three stages:
- Freezing – increasing pain and reduced range of motion
- Frozen – stiffness with reduced pain
- Thawing – gradual return of movement
Patients may experience prolonged discomfort and functional limitations during this process without proper management.
The exact causes of a frozen shoulder are not always clear. Primary frozen shoulders can occur without any underlying condition, while secondary cases are often linked to rotator cuff injuries, surgery, or other shoulder trauma. Common contributing factors include prolonged immobility, diabetes, thyroid disorders and cardiovascular disease. Also, diabetic patients are five times more likely to develop frozen shoulders. These systemic and mechanical factors highlight the importance of comprehensive assessment and management.
Symptoms of Frozen Shoulder
Frozen shoulder is characterised by persistent shoulder pain, stiffness, and progressive loss of movement that affects daily activities such as getting dressed or reaching overhead. Pain is worse at night and may radiate to the upper arm. Early symptoms can be misleading, so clinical evaluation is crucial to distinguish frozen shoulders from other conditions, such as rotator cuff tears or arthritis.
As the condition progresses through the aforementioned three stages, recognizing the signs early and seeking intervention can shorten recovery time. At HelloPhysio, we prioritize accurate diagnosis and tailor treatment plans to match the patient’s stage of frozen shoulder. With timely and consistent physiotherapy, many patients can regain full function and avoid long-term complications.
Physio Treatment for Frozen Shoulder
Physio treatment for a frozen shoulder focuses on mobility, pain and shoulder function. At HelloPhysio, our experienced team starts with a comprehensive assessment to determine the stage of the condition and tailor a treatment plan accordingly.
Early stages typically involve gentle joint mobilization, pain management strategies, and passive range-of-motion exercises. As the inflammation subsides, active exercises are introduced to strengthen the shoulder girdle and support structures. Our therapists also educate patients on improving their posture, ergonomics, and home exercises to support long-term recovery.
We emphasize graded progression at HelloPhysio, meaning we work within the patient’s pain threshold and gradually increase the load and complexity of movements as mobility improves. This approach avoids flare-ups and encourages steady growth.
INDIBA Tissue Healing and Pain Relief
INDIBA® Activ is one of the most effective adjunctive treatments for frozen shoulders. This non-invasive therapy uses radiofrequency energy at 448 kHz to stimulate healing at the cellular level.
For frozen shoulders, INDIBA therapy targets the inflamed joint capsule and surrounding soft tissues, improves blood flow, and reduces stiffness. By increasing cell membrane permeability and oxygenation, INDIBA enhances tissue regeneration and reduces chronic inflammation. Patients often report a significant reduction in pain and increased range of motion after just a few sessions.
When used in conjunction with a physiotherapy programme, INDIBA speeds up recovery and improves the patient’s experience by making exercises more tolerable. It’s especially useful in early and frozen stages, when pain and stiffness are most prominent.
Shockwave Therapy Recovery in Chronic Stages
Shockwave Therapy is another adjunctive modality we use at HelloPhysio. It is particularly effective in chronic frozen shoulders when capsular fibrosis and tendon thickening are present. This therapy delivers high-energy acoustic waves to the affected area, promoting neovascularisation, collagen remodelling and cellular metabolism.
Shockwave Therapy breaks down scar tissue, promotes healing and improves shoulder mobility. In cases where soft tissue adhesions or calcific deposits cause limited mobility, Shockwave Therapy breaks down fibrotic tissue and stimulates healing. It also desenzitises pain receptors, reduces discomfort and allows for more effective engagement in therapeutic exercises.
Shockwave Therapy is not typically the first line of treatment in the acute inflammatory phase, but becomes more valuable as the condition progresses. When used with INDIBA Activ and manual therapy, it can be a part of the best treatment for frozen shoulders.
Massage Treatment for Frozen Shoulders
Another component of frozen shoulder treatment at HelloPhysio is manual therapy, including sports massage techniques. Frozen shoulder massage treatment relieves muscular tension and improves soft tissue mobility, particularly in the surrounding musculature, such as the deltoid, trapezius, pectorals and rotator cuff muscles.
Sports massage helps to address compensatory tightness that develops as the body adapts to a restricted shoulder joint. Techniques such as deep tissue massage, myofascial release, and trigger point therapy alleviate pain, reduce spasms, and prepare the shoulder for mobilization and stretching.
When incorporated into a broader physiotherapy programme, frozen shoulder massage treatment improves comfort and facilitates greater gains during active rehabilitation. It can also support lymphatic drainage and reduce inflammation in chronic cases.
Prescribed Exercises for Relief
At-home exercises are crucial in relieving pain and improving the range of motion of a frozen shoulder. Gentle stretching exercises, such as pendulum stretch and finger walk, can help loosen the tight portion of the shoulder capsule, while strengthening exercises, such as outward rotation and armpit stretch, are beneficial for improving shoulder mobility and reducing pain.
Consult a physical therapist to develop a personalized exercise program, as excessive exercise can exacerbate the condition. Applying heat or an ice pack to the affected area can also help reduce pain and stiffness, making exercises more effective.
Frozen Shoulder Alternative Treatment Options
While physiotherapy is the most consistent evidence-based approach, alternative treatment options can complement your recovery. These include Dry Needling, kinesiology taping and Clinical Pilates. Implementing specific measures can help prevent frozen shoulders or mitigate their severity.
At HelloPhysio, we incorporate selected alternative techniques as part of a holistic care plan when clinically indicated. Dry Needling, for instance, can be used to target myofascial trigger points contributing to referred pain patterns. Clinical Pilates focuses on postural control, scapular stability, and functional strengthening, key elements for full recovery.
Each patient’s treatment journey is unique. For some, conservative management with manual therapy and exercises is sufficient. Others may benefit from more advanced adjuncts like INDIBA Activ and Shockwave Therapy. The key is personalized care.
Prevention Strategies and Causes of Frozen Shoulder
Preventing frozen shoulders involves maintaining a healthy weight, exercising regularly and avoiding repetitive shoulder movements. Managing underlying medical conditions such as diabetes and thyroid disorders is also crucial in reducing the risk of developing frozen shoulders.
If symptoms persist, seeking medical attention from a frozen shoulder specialist is essential. A comprehensive diagnosis and treatment plan, including physical therapy, medication, and, in some cases, surgery, can alleviate pain and improve shoulder mobility.
By understanding the causes and symptoms of frozen shoulder, individuals can take proactive steps to prevent the condition and seek early treatment for optimal recovery.
Why Physiotherapy Treatment for Frozen Shoulder Works
Frozen shoulder physiotherapy treatment works because it addresses the condition’s mechanical, neurological and inflammatory components. Unlike corticosteroid injections or medication, which may offer short-term relief, physiotherapy focuses on long-term recovery through movement retraining and tissue remodelling. Physiotherapy focuses on restoring the shoulder’s range of motion, addressing mechanical and inflammatory components.
Most importantly, physiotherapy empowers patients. By involving patients in their recovery through education, home exercises and regular feedback, we ensure better adherence and more sustainable results.
Frozen Shoulder Treatment in Singapore: Why Choose HelloPhysio?
Looking for frozen shoulder treatment in Singapore? HelloPhysio stands out for its clinical excellence, patient-centerd care, and the latest modalities. Frozen shoulder doesn’t have to be a long-term limitation. With the right treatment plan, guided by experienced physiotherapists and supported by advanced therapies, recovery is possible and expected.
If you’re experiencing stiffness, pain, or limited movement in your shoulder, don’t wait for it to “thaw” on its own. Early intervention can make a big difference in the speed and quality of recovery. Contact HelloPhysio today to book a consultation and take the first step towards expert frozen shoulder treatment in Singapore.
