Clinically called adhesive capsulitis, frozen shoulder is a painful condition that limits shoulder movement and impacts quality of life. Affecting up to 5% of people (especially between ages 40 and 60), it’s more common than many realize. As a functional healthcare provider, we regularly support patients through recovery with timely, targeted care.
How We Diagnose Frozen Shoulder
The condition often begins with progressive stiffness and worsening pain, particularly at night. Diagnosis is primarily clinical and involves taking a detailed history, observing restricted movement in all directions—especially external rotation and abduction—and occasionally using imaging such as X-rays or MRIs to rule out other causes like rotator cuff injuries.
Stages of Frozen Shoulder and When Care Helps Most
Frozen shoulder progresses through three distinct phases:
- In the Freezing Stage, pain and stiffness gradually increase and may last 6 weeks to 9 months.
- The Frozen Stage is marked by persistent stiffness and reduced pain, often lasting 4 to 12 months.
- During the Thawing Stage, movement slowly returns over 6 months to 2 years.
Functional chiropractic care is most effective during the Frozen and Thawing stages when inflammation subsides and the goal shifts toward restoring mobility and function.
Techniques to Restore Mobility and Reduce Pain
Each patient’s care is tailored to their specific needs; here’s how our functional approach supports healing:
- Gentle joint mobilization to stretch the shoulder capsule and improve range of motion without adding pain
- Soft tissue therapy (like myofascial release and trigger point techniques) to ease muscle tension
- Targeted home exercises to gradually increase strength and flexibility
- Cold laser or ultrasound therapy to reduce inflammation and promote healing
- Lifestyle and posture coaching to prevent contributing habits like poor ergonomics
Tracking Progress for Lasting Results
We monitor outcomes using measurable benchmarks, such as range of motion and pain scales. Functional improvements, like brushing hair or reaching overhead, are tracked alongside regular check-ins and adjustments to the care plan. Patient education is key to helping prevent flare-ups and encouraging long-term shoulder health.
Our goal is not just symptom relief, but complete restoration of function and prevention of future issues.
Susan’s Story: From Pain to Progress
Susan, a 52-year-old teacher, arrived with severe pain and limited shoulder mobility. Diagnosed in the frozen stage, she began care focused on joint mobilization, soft tissue therapy, and at-home exercises. Within six weeks, her pain dropped significantly. After three months, she had regained nearly full range of motion and returned to swimming—her favorite activity. Susan now maintains her progress with consistent exercises and periodic check-ins.
Don’t Wait—Start Your Recovery Today
Shoulder stiffness and pain shouldn’t hold you back. The earlier you begin care, the better the chances for a smooth and lasting recovery. With a supportive plan and consistent guidance, you can regain mobility and return to doing what you love.
Contact Zeal Integrated Health to schedule an appointment with one of our Springfield chiropractors and take the first step toward pain-free movement.
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