Imagine waking up one morning and struggling to lift your arm to brush your teeth or comb your hair. This scenario is exactly what happened to Megan (not her real name), a busy mom and avid tennis player. One day, Megan found herself unable to perform even the simplest tasks due to severe shoulder pain and stiffness. Frozen shoulder, also known as adhesive capsulitis, can make everyday activities feel like monumental tasks. If you’ve been searching for a way to regain mobility and reduce pain, frozen shoulder treatment through physical therapy might be your answer.
Ready to get started with physical therapy for frozen shoulder? Call our team at Eastside Sports Rehab in Bellevue, WA today to learn more!
What is Frozen Shoulder?
Medically known as adhesive capsulitis, frozen shoulder occurs when the shoulder capsule thickens and tightens around the shoulder joint, restricting movement. Common signs include stiffness, limited range of motion, and pain in the shoulder, especially when trying to lift the arm. In Megan’s case, the pain became so severe that she had to stop playing tennis, impacting her daily routine and favorite pastime.
Causes of Frozen Shoulder
Injury or Surgery
- After shoulder injuries or surgeries, limited joint use can lead to stiffness. For Megan, a minor shoulder injury during a tennis match led to her condition.
Medical Conditions
- Conditions like diabetes, heart disease, or thyroid disorders can increase the risk.
Age and Gender
- People between 40 and 60, particularly women, are more likely to develop frozen shoulder.
How Physical Therapy Can Help with Regaining Mobility and Function after Frozen Shoulder
Physical therapy plays a crucial role in frozen shoulder treatment. Through personalized care, physical therapists can help you regain mobility and function, easing pain and stiffness. Here’s what you can expect from therapy similar to what Megan received.
Treatment Methods
Stretching Exercises
- Targeted stretches help improve the range of motion. Megan found that these exercises significantly reduced her stiffness over time.
Strengthening Exercises
- Building strength in the shoulder muscles supports recovery. Megan’s therapist introduced her to exercises that helped her regain the strength needed for daily tasks and tennis.
Manual Therapy
- Hands-on techniques help to mobilize the shoulder joint. Manual therapy was a crucial part of Megan’s recovery, relieving the intense pain.
Heat and Cold Therapy
- Heat and cold therapy help reduce pain before and after exercises. Megan used this therapy to manage her pain and improve her exercise outcomes.
Patients in physical therapy show significant improvement in shoulder function and pain reduction. Megan experienced firsthand how these treatments helped her return to her active lifestyle.
Start Your Journey to Recovery Today
If you’re experiencing symptoms of a frozen shoulder, seeking physical therapy can be the key to a smoother, quicker recovery. Just like Megan, you can find relief and regain your active life.
Call our team at Eastside Sports Rehab in Bellevue, WA to learn about frozen shoulder treatment and discover if this approach is right for you.
