Shoulder pain can be frustrating, but when your shoulder becomes so stiff that even simple movements like wearing clothes or reaching overhead cause pain, it may be more than just soreness – it could be Frozen Shoulder, also known as Adhesive Capsulitis.
At My Pain Clinic Global, located in Bandra (West), Mumbai, our physiotherapists specialize in frozen shoulder physiotherapy, helping patients restore movement, reduce pain, and prevent long-term stiffness through early and effective treatment.
Recognizing the early signs and acting promptly can make all the difference in your recovery journey.
What is Frozen Shoulder?
Frozen Shoulder (Adhesive Capsulitis) is a condition characterized by stiffness, inflammation, and pain in the shoulder joint capsule. Over time, the soft tissues surrounding the shoulder become thickened and tight, restricting movement and making even daily tasks difficult.
It typically develops gradually and may worsen if ignored or left untreated. The condition usually progresses through three stages:
- Freezing Stage (Painful Stage):
Shoulder pain gradually increases, especially at night. Movement becomes limited as inflammation worsens. - Frozen Stage (Stiffness Stage):
Pain may decrease slightly, but stiffness becomes severe. Movement – especially rotation – becomes highly restricted. - Thawing Stage (Recovery Stage):
Gradual improvement in movement and flexibility begins as inflammation reduces and tissues loosen.
The entire process can take several months to two years, depending on the severity and how early treatment is started.
Common Causes and Risk Factors
Frozen Shoulder can develop spontaneously, but certain factors make some individuals more susceptible.
Common causes and risk factors include:
- Shoulder immobility after injury, surgery, or prolonged rest (such as using a sling or cast)
- Diabetes – one of the strongest risk factors
- Thyroid or hormonal disorders
- Age and gender – most common in adults between 40–60 years, and more frequent in women
- Postural strain or sedentary lifestyle
Early physiotherapy intervention can prevent stiffness from worsening and restore function before the shoulder “freezes” completely.
Early Signs of Frozen Shoulder
Recognizing early symptoms is key to preventing long-term restriction.
Watch out for these signs:
- Persistent dull or aching pain in the shoulder, often worse at night
- Difficulty lifting your arm overhead or reaching behind your back
- Gradual reduction in range of motion
- Shoulder stiffness that doesn’t improve with rest
- Pain when lying on the affected shoulder
- Discomfort during daily activities like dressing or combing hair
If these symptoms persist for more than two weeks, it’s important to seek professional evaluation. Early frozen shoulder physiotherapy can halt progression and restore mobility faster.
Why You Should Act Early
Many people ignore shoulder stiffness or assume it will improve on its own. Unfortunately, frozen shoulder tends to worsen without targeted treatment.
Here’s why early action matters:
- Prevents Complete Stiffness
Starting physiotherapy early prevents the shoulder capsule from tightening further and reduces inflammation before scar tissue forms. - Reduces Pain Sooner
Physiotherapy techniques such as manual mobilization, soft tissue release, and laser therapy ease pain and restore joint comfort. - Speeds Up Recovery
Early therapy shortens the recovery timeline. Without intervention, frozen shoulder can take up to 18–24 months to heal naturally. - Avoids Compensatory Injuries
Shoulder stiffness can cause strain on the neck, spine, and opposite shoulder. Early rehabilitation prevents this. - Improves Daily Function and Sleep
Early management reduces night pain and improves daily comfort – restoring your ability to move freely again.
How Physiotherapy Helps in Frozen Shoulder
At My Pain Clinic Global, we offer a comprehensive, non-surgical approach to treating Frozen Shoulder. Our physiotherapists use evidence-based techniques designed to relieve pain, restore shoulder movement, and strengthen surrounding muscles for long-term recovery.
Our Frozen Shoulder Treatment Plan includes:
1. Manual Therapy and Joint Mobilization
Gentle stretching and mobilization techniques improve joint flexibility and reduce stiffness – helping restore normal shoulder mechanics and range of motion.
2. Laser and PBM Therapy
Photobiomodulation (PBM) Laser Therapy promotes cellular repair, reduces inflammation, and accelerates healing in affected tissues.
3. Deep Tissue Thermotherapy
Targeted deep heat therapy enhances blood circulation, relaxes tight shoulder muscles, and reduces pain and stiffness effectively.
4. Acoustic Wave Therapy
Acoustic Wave Therapy (AWT) is a powerful non-invasive treatment that uses sound waves to stimulate tissue regeneration and improve circulation.
In cases of frozen shoulder, AWT helps break down fibrotic adhesions, reduce inflammation, and enhance shoulder mobility – accelerating the body’s natural healing process.
5. Targeted Exercises
Our therapists guide you through progressive shoulder stiffness treatment exercises focused on improving flexibility and strength without causing additional pain.
Commonly recommended exercises include:
- Pendulum swings
- Assisted shoulder flexion
- Wall climbs and pulley movements
- Rotator cuff strengthening
6. Posture Correction and Ergonomic Advice
Poor posture and workspace ergonomics often contribute to shoulder strain. Correcting them helps prevent recurrence and promotes balanced shoulder movement.
7. Home Exercise and Maintenance Program
We design simple, daily exercise routines to help you continue improving mobility at home between therapy sessions.
Why Choose My Pain Clinic Global for Frozen Shoulder Physiotherapy
At My Pain Clinic Global, we combine clinical expertise, advanced technology, and personalized care to deliver lasting results. Our physiotherapists have extensive experience in treating adhesive capsulitis and related shoulder conditions with a focus on safe, non-invasive recovery.
What sets us apart:
- Personalized assessment and treatment for every patient
- Advanced pain management technologies like Acoustic Wave Therapy, PBM Laser Therapy, and Deep Tissue Thermotherapy
- Gentle manual therapy techniques to restore movement without discomfort
- Ongoing patient education and posture guidance
- Convenient location in Bandra (West), Mumbai
Our evidence-based approach ensures faster, more comfortable recovery and long-term shoulder health.
Don’t Wait – Act Early for Shoulder Pain Relief
If you notice persistent shoulder stiffness or pain that limits your movement, don’t delay treatment. Early diagnosis and professional physiotherapy can prevent the condition from progressing to a “frozen” stage.
At My Pain Clinic Global, our experts specialize in frozen shoulder physiotherapy to help you regain strength, flexibility, and freedom of movement safely and effectively.
Book your consultation today at My Pain Clinic Global, Bandra (West), Mumbai, and take the first step toward lasting shoulder pain relief and recovery.
