Have you noticed your shoulder becoming stiff, sore, and harder to move? Maybe it’s a struggle to reach overhead, put on a shirt, or even sleep comfortably on one side. If this sounds like you, you could be dealing with a condition known as frozen shoulder.

At Dr7 Physiotherapy, we are very familiar with this condition, and the good news is, with the right care, you can get back to doing the things you love.

 

 

 

 

 

What Is Frozen Shoulder?

Frozen shoulder, or adhesive capsulitis, is when the shoulder joint becomes painful, stiff, and loses its range of motion. It usually develops gradually and can last for months—or even years—if left untreated.

It’s most common in people aged 40 and over, and tends to affect more women than men. It can also happen after an injury, surgery, or a period of immobility (for example, wearing a sling for a while).

What Causes It?

The shoulder joint is surrounded by a capsule of connective tissue. With frozen shoulder, this capsule becomes inflamed and tight, and in some cases, thick scar-like tissue forms. This limits how far the joint can move, and causes pain and stiffness.

You may be more at risk if you:

• Are recovering from a shoulder injury or surgery
• Have diabetes, thyroid conditions, or other metabolic disorders
• Are in your 40s, 50s or 60s

The 3 Stages of Frozen Shoulder

Frozen shoulder generally progresses through three stages:

1. Freezing Stage – Your shoulder gradually becomes more painful and loses movement. This stage can last from 6 weeks up to 9 months.
2. Frozen Stage – Pain may ease a little, but stiffness worsens, and everyday activities become harder. This stage can last from 4 to 12 months.
3. Thawing Stage – Movement slowly returns, and stiffness begins to ease. This recovery stage may take 6 months to 2 years.

How Can Physiotherapy Help?

While frozen shoulder may eventually resolve on its own, physiotherapy can significantly speed up your recovery and reduce pain along the way.

At Dr7 Physiotherapy, we tailor your treatment to your stage of frozen shoulder and your lifestyle needs. This may include:

• Hands-on manual therapy to reduce stiffness and improve joint movement
• Guided stretching and strengthening exercises that you can do at home and in the clinic
• Postural and ergonomic advice to take the pressure off the shoulder during daily tasks
• Education on pacing activity and avoiding movements that may aggravate your symptoms

Our goal is to help you move better, feel better, and regain confidence in your shoulder.

What You Can Do at Home

Here are a few tips to support your progress between sessions:

• Apply a warm pack to the shoulder before doing your exercises
• Stay active, but avoid painful or jerky movements
• Follow your physio’s advice—everyone’s shoulder is different, and what works for one person might not be right for another
• Be patient—it can take time, but improvement is absolutely possible

Let’s Get Your Shoulder Moving Again

Frozen shoulder can be frustrating, but with the right treatment and support, it doesn’t have to take over your life.

If you think you may be dealing with frozen shoulder, the team at Dr7 Physiotherapy in Yokine is here to help. We’ll assess your shoulder, explain what’s going on, and create a personalised treatment plan to get you back on track.

👉 Book an appointment today and let’s get started on your recovery.