Frozen shoulder physiotherapy

Frozen shoulder (adhesive capsulitis) causes progressive stiffness and pain in the shoulder joint. Physiotherapy is essential for restoring range of motion and speeding recovery, which can otherwise take 1 to 3 years without treatment.

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Frozen shoulder develops when the capsule surrounding the shoulder joint thickens and tightens, restricting movement. It typically progresses through three stages: the freezing stage (increasing pain and stiffness), the frozen stage (stiffness plateaus, pain may decrease), and the thawing stage (gradual return of movement).

Physiotherapy can significantly reduce the duration and severity of frozen shoulder. Treatment is carefully adapted to your current stage, using gentle techniques during the painful freezing phase and more intensive mobilization and stretching as the condition progresses.

What to expect

Gradual loss of shoulder movement over weeks or months

Pain that worsens at night and disrupts sleep

Difficulty with daily tasks like reaching overhead, dressing, or fastening a seatbelt

Three stages: freezing (2-9 months), frozen (4-12 months), thawing (5-24 months)

How we treat it

Gentle range-of-motion exercises matched to your stage

Joint mobilization techniques to improve capsule flexibility

Stretching programs that progress as tolerance allows

Strengthening exercises as mobility returns

Pain management through heat, positioning, and activity modification

Recovery timeline

Frozen shoulder recovery varies by stage and severity. With consistent physiotherapy, most patients see meaningful improvement in 3 to 6 months. Without treatment, full recovery can take 1 to 3 years. Early intervention during the freezing stage leads to the best outcomes.

When to see a physiotherapist

See a physiotherapist as soon as you notice progressive shoulder stiffness or difficulty raising your arm. Early treatment can prevent the condition from worsening and reduce overall recovery time. If shoulder pain developed suddenly after an injury, get assessed to rule out a rotator cuff tear or fracture.

Frequently asked questions

How long does frozen shoulder last?

Without treatment, frozen shoulder typically lasts 1 to 3 years. With physiotherapy, recovery is often significantly faster, with most patients seeing meaningful improvement within 3 to 6 months. The key is consistent treatment and daily exercises.

Can frozen shoulder heal on its own?

Frozen shoulder does eventually resolve on its own in most cases, but it can take 1 to 3 years and may not return to full range of motion. Physiotherapy speeds recovery, reduces pain, and helps restore more complete movement.

What exercises are best for frozen shoulder?

The best exercises depend on your stage. In the early stages, gentle pendulum exercises and passive stretches are most appropriate. As the condition progresses, wall walks, cross-body stretches, and eventually strengthening exercises are added. Your physiotherapist will guide the progression.

Get treatment for frozen shoulder

Available anywhere in India

Online physiotherapy

Live video sessions with an experienced physiotherapist. Get assessed, treated, and guided through your recovery from home.

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4 locations in Vijayawada

Physiotherapy at home

At your doorstep in Vijayawada

Reviewed by Dr. V. B. Rajendra Prasad, MPT (Orthopaedics)
Physical Therapist licensed in the United States. About Dr. Rajendra

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