Condition
Physiotherapy for Frozen Shoulder
Progressive shoulder stiffness that limits reaching, dressing and overhead movement.
Frozen shoulder, sometimes called adhesive capsulitis, involves the shoulder joint capsule becoming painful and progressively stiff. It typically moves through stages over an extended period.
Treatment is matched to the stage. Early on the focus is often on comfort and gentle movement, while later stages tolerate more mobility work.
Last reviewed: 2026-01-12 · SS Physiotherapy Clinic
Common symptoms
- Gradual loss of shoulder movement in several directions
- Difficulty reaching behind the back or overhead
- Pain that disturbs sleep, especially lying on that side
- Struggling with dressing or grooming
- Stiffness that persists even when pain reduces
Possible contributing factors
- Often no clear trigger
- A period of shoulder immobility after injury or surgery
- Associated medical conditions your doctor may screen for
- More common in certain age ranges
- Prolonged reduced use of the arm
How physiotherapy may help
- Identifying the current stage and setting realistic expectations
- Stage-appropriate mobility and stretching
- Pain-aware progression rather than forcing movement
- Strengthening as range returns
- Practical adaptations for daily tasks
Assessment and treatment approach
- Range of movement and strength testing
- Screening for other shoulder problems
- Graded mobility work suited to the stage
- Manual therapy where clinically indicated
- Home programme with clear frequency guidance
General self-care advice
- Keep the shoulder moving gently every day
- Avoid forcing painful end-range movements
- Use pillows to support the arm at night if that helps
- Expect gradual change rather than rapid improvement
When to seek medical care
- Shoulder pain following significant trauma
- Inability to lift the arm at all after an injury
- Fever, redness or heat in the joint
- Chest pain or breathlessness alongside shoulder pain
If symptoms are severe or worsening quickly, contact a doctor or emergency services without waiting for a physiotherapy appointment.
FAQs
Questions about frozen shoulder
Related services
Get assessed for frozen shoulder
Tell us about your condition and we will confirm a suitable date and time. You can also call or message the clinic directly.