Frozen Shoulder and How Chiropractic Care Can Help
Frozen shoulder, also known as adhesive capsulitis, is a condition that can turn even the simplest daily tasks—like reaching for a coffee mug or putting on a jacket—into a painful challenge. While it often develops slowly and can last for months (or even years), the good news is that with the right approach, you can restore movement and reduce discomfort.
What Is Frozen Shoulder?
Frozen shoulder happens when the connective tissue surrounding the shoulder joint (the joint capsule) becomes thickened and tight, forming adhesions. This restricts the shoulder’s range of motion and causes stiffness, pain, and inflammation.
Common causes and risk factors include:
- Previous shoulder injury or surgery
- Prolonged immobilization (like wearing a sling)
- Diabetes or thyroid disorders
- Age (most common between 40–60)
- Inflammatory conditions
The condition typically progresses in three stages:
- Freezing Stage: Gradual onset of pain and stiffness.
- Frozen Stage: Stiffness remains, pain may slightly decrease.
- Thawing Stage: Range of motion begins to return.
Without treatment, frozen shoulder can last 1–3 years, and even longer in some cases.
How Chiropractic Care Can Help
While frozen shoulder can be frustratingly slow to heal, chiropractic care offers a drug-free, non-invasive approach to support recovery and improve function.
1. Restoring Joint Mobility
Chiropractors use gentle adjustments and mobilization techniques to improve alignment and movement in the shoulder joint, as well as the cervical and thoracic spine. This can help reduce tension and promote better biomechanics in the shoulder area.
2. Reducing Pain and Inflammation
Targeted chiropractic adjustments can relieve nerve irritation and reduce the body’s inflammatory response, helping manage pain during the early “freezing” stage.
3. Soft Tissue Therapy
In addition to adjustments, chiropractors often use muscle release techniques, stretching, and myofascial work to break down adhesions, improve blood flow, and loosen tight tissues surrounding the shoulder.
4. Guided Rehabilitation Exercises
Customized exercise plans can help patients gently improve flexibility and range of motion without aggravating the joint. Chiropractors may also teach at-home stretches to accelerate recovery.
5. Whole-Body Approach
Because the body works as an interconnected system, chiropractors often address postural issues, spine alignment, and shoulder mechanics to prevent compensation injuries and reduce the risk of future shoulder problems.
What to Expect During Chiropractic Treatment for Frozen Shoulder
- Assessment: Your chiropractor will review your medical history, perform an exam, and may recommend imaging to confirm the diagnosis.
- Treatment Plan: Expect a personalized combination of adjustments, mobilization, stretching, and exercises.
- Gradual Progress: While some patients notice improvements in weeks, frozen shoulder recovery is typically gradual. Consistency with care and exercises is key.
The Bottom Line
Frozen shoulder can be a stubborn and painful condition, but you don’t have to endure it alone or rely solely on medication. Chiropractic care offers a holistic path to restoring motion, reducing pain, and helping you get back to the activities you love.
If you’ve been struggling with shoulder stiffness, consider booking an appointment with a chiropractor. Early intervention can help you “thaw out” faster and regain full use of your shoulder.
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