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.
Written by Dr. V. B. Rajendra Prasad, MPT, licensed in the US and UK. 20 years of clinical experience.
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
How we treat it
Key exercises for frozen shoulder
These exercises are commonly prescribed for frozen shoulder. Consult a physiotherapist before starting, especially if you have acute pain.
Pendulum exercise
Lean forward and let the affected arm hang down. Gently swing it in small circles. Reduces stiffness without forcing movement.
Wall walk
Face a wall and walk your fingers upward as high as you can tolerate. Gradually increases overhead reach over time.
Towel stretch behind back
Hold a towel behind your back with both hands. Use the good arm to gently pull the affected arm upward.
Cross-body stretch
Use your good hand to pull the affected arm across your body at shoulder height. Hold for 15 to 20 seconds.
External rotation with stick
Hold a stick in both hands at waist level. Use the good arm to push the affected arm outward, rotating the shoulder.
Need personalized guidance? A physiotherapist can assess your specific condition and tailor an exercise program for you. Start online physiotherapy
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?
Can frozen shoulder heal on its own?
What exercises are best for frozen shoulder?
Treatment cost
Treatment is the Spine & Joint package of 14 sessions: ₹6,800 online, or ₹8,500 for home visits in Vijayawada.
Not ready for a package? Start with a single 1-hour session of consultation and initial treatment: ₹649 online, or ₹799 at home in Vijayawada. The full amount is credited if you continue into a package within 14 days.
Every package includes
- 1Initial assessment
- 2Personalised exercise plan
- 3Supervised sessions and everyday movement
- 4Progress reviews
- 5Clinical completion summary
Each session is 45 minutes to 1 hour. How often you have sessions depends on your condition and stage of recovery, and you choose times that suit you.
No doctor's referral needed. How we screen · Check your warning signs
Illustrated exercises
Step-by-step pictures, how many to do, and common mistakes. Your physiotherapist will choose which suit you.
Browse the exercise library
Written by Dr. V. B. Rajendra Prasad, MPT. Licensed to practice in the US (NY state) and UK (HCPC).
20 years of clinical experience. About Dr. Rajendra
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