About the condition
Frozen shoulder, also called adhesive capsulitis, is a condition where the shoulder joint becomes inflamed and the surrounding capsule tightens. It usually develops gradually and can take many months to improve.
Movement is often most restricted in rotation, making it hard to reach behind the back, fasten clothing or lift the arm. Other shoulder problems can look similar, so an assessment helps identify what is causing your symptoms.
Common symptoms to look out for
- Shoulder pain that builds up gradually
- Stiffness that limits reaching, lifting or rotating the arm
- Pain at night, especially when lying on the affected side
- Difficulty with daily tasks such as dressing or combing hair
- A painful phase followed by a stiff, less painful phase
- Reduced movement in more than one direction
This information is general in nature. It is not a diagnosis, and individual situations vary. A physiotherapist can assess your specific condition.
How physiotherapy may help
Treatment is based on assessment findings and your goals. Approaches commonly used include:
Assessment
Your physiotherapist assesses shoulder movement, strength and the pattern of pain to confirm what is limiting your arm.
Mobility exercises
Graded stretching and movement work aim to restore range without provoking pain.
Manual therapy where appropriate
Hands-on techniques may be used to gently improve joint movement and reduce muscle guarding.
Strengthening
As movement improves, strengthening the shoulder and shoulder-blade muscles helps restore useful function.
Pain management advice
Guidance on positions, sleep and activity pacing helps you manage pain through the early, more painful phase.
Functional rehabilitation
Rehabilitation focuses on getting back to dressing, reaching, work and daily tasks with less difficulty.
Physiotherapy aims to improve movement and function, but results vary from person to person. No specific outcome can be guaranteed.
Who may benefit
- Adults with progressive shoulder pain and stiffness
- People with limited reaching behind the back
- Those whose shoulder pain disturbs sleep
- People with diabetes, who are more prone to frozen shoulder
- Anyone whose shoulder stiffness is affecting daily tasks
What to expect during treatment
- 1
Initial assessment
Your physiotherapist asks about your symptoms, medical history and daily activities, then examines movement, strength, and how your condition affects you.
- 2
Identifying movement limitations
Your physiotherapist records exactly how far the shoulder moves in each direction so progress can be measured over time.
- 3
Personalised treatment plan
You receive a plan built around your condition and goals, with realistic expectations and a clear idea of what will be done at each session.
- 4
Exercise and rehabilitation
Treatment combines guided exercises, hands-on techniques where appropriate, and education about posture and movement you can continue at home.
- 5
Progress monitoring
Your physiotherapist reviews your progress regularly and adjusts the plan as your movement, strength and confidence improve.
Frequently asked questions
What is frozen shoulder?+
Frozen shoulder is a condition where the shoulder joint capsule becomes inflamed and tight, causing pain and progressively restricted movement. It usually develops gradually and improves over months, though the timeline varies.
Can physiotherapy help a frozen shoulder?+
Physiotherapy is a common part of managing frozen shoulder. Graded movement, stretching, strengthening and pain advice can help restore function, but progress is often gradual and results vary.
How long does frozen shoulder last?+
Frozen shoulder often follows a course of months, sometimes over a year. Physiotherapy aims to reduce pain and maintain or improve movement during that time.
Should I push through the pain?+
No. Aggressive stretching can worsen symptoms. Your physiotherapist will guide you on how much movement is helpful and when to progress.
Can frozen shoulder come back?+
It is uncommon for the same shoulder to fully freeze again, though some people continue to have mild stiffness. Regular movement helps maintain what you regain.
When should I see a physiotherapist?+
If shoulder pain or stiffness is limiting your daily activity, an assessment can help clarify the cause and guide treatment. Seek urgent care after a significant injury or if you cannot lift the arm at all.
Related services
Neck Pain Physiotherapy
Care for neck pain, stiffness, cervical spondylosis and posture-related discomfort from desk work and phone use.
Post-Surgery Physiotherapy
Guided rehabilitation after joint replacement, fracture, ligament or shoulder surgery to rebuild mobility and strength.
Sports Injury Physiotherapy
Assessment and progressive rehabilitation for sprains, strains, muscle and joint injuries, with return-to-sport planning.
Need Physiotherapy in Nepalgunj?
Book an Appointment with Nepalgunj Physiotherapy Clinic for Frozen Shoulder Physiotherapy. Call or message us to discuss an assessment and a treatment plan suited to your needs.
Phone9858023674
Location3J38+25 Nepalgunj, Banke, Lumbini Province, Nepal