Frozen shoulder, medically known as adhesive capsulitis, is a painful condition that gradually restricts shoulder movement. Daily activities such as dressing, reaching overhead, driving, or sleeping comfortably can become difficult. At YOS Health, London Bridge, our physiotherapists provide evidence-based rehabilitation programmes that reduce pain, restore shoulder mobility and help patients regain normal function.
What is Frozen Shoulder?
Frozen shoulder occurs when the capsule surrounding the shoulder joint becomes inflamed, thickened and tight. This causes pain and progressive loss of shoulder movement. Although the condition often improves naturally over time, recovery can take many months or even years without appropriate treatment.
Who is at Risk?
- Adults between 40 and 65 years
- People with diabetes
- Following shoulder surgery
- After prolonged immobilisation
- Previous shoulder injuries
- Thyroid disorders
Symptoms of Frozen Shoulder
- Gradually increasing shoulder pain
- Difficulty reaching overhead
- Pain during the night
- Difficulty dressing or fastening clothing
- Reduced range of shoulder movement
- Stiffness affecting everyday activities
Stages of Recovery
1. Freezing Stage
Pain gradually worsens while shoulder movement becomes increasingly restricted.
2. Frozen Stage
Pain may reduce slightly but stiffness becomes more significant, limiting functional activities.
3. Thawing Stage
Shoulder mobility slowly improves with rehabilitation and consistent exercises.
How Physiotherapy Helps
Pain Management
Manual therapy, joint mobilisation, soft tissue techniques and pain-relieving modalities help reduce inflammation and discomfort.
Mobility Restoration
Targeted stretching and mobilisation exercises gradually restore shoulder flexibility while protecting healing tissues.
Strengthening Exercises
Progressive strengthening of the rotator cuff, scapular stabilisers and upper back muscles improves long-term shoulder function.
Functional Rehabilitation
Treatment focuses on returning patients to work, sports and everyday activities through personalised rehabilitation programmes.
Home Exercises
- Pendulum exercises
- Wall climbing exercises
- Towel stretches
- Cross-body stretches
- External rotation stretches
- Scapular strengthening
When Should You See a Physiotherapist?
If shoulder pain persists for more than two weeks, movement becomes progressively restricted, sleep is disturbed, or daily activities become difficult, professional assessment is recommended.
Why Choose YOS Health London Bridge?
Our musculoskeletal physiotherapists specialise in shoulder rehabilitation using evidence-based assessment, personalised exercise programmes, manual therapy and long-term prevention strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can frozen shoulder heal without treatment?
Yes, but recovery may take one to three years. Physiotherapy often improves function and reduces recovery time.
Is frozen shoulder permanent?
Most patients regain substantial movement, although early treatment generally produces better outcomes.
Is exercise important?
Yes. Gentle, supervised exercises are one of the most effective components of recovery.
Can frozen shoulder return?
Recurrence in the same shoulder is uncommon, although the opposite shoulder may occasionally become affected.