Can osteopathy help with frozen shoulder (AKA Adhesive Capsulitis)
Osteopathy for frozen shoulder
Yes, an osteopath can help manage and treat frozen shoulder using hands-on techniques such as soft tissue massage, gentle joint mobilisation, and targeted stretching to improve movement and reduce discomfort.
Frozen shoulder – medically known as Adhesive Capsulitis – is a debilitating condition affecting up to 5% of the population. Generally speaking, symptoms are often mild at first but can worsen over the course of several months.
While over-the-counter painkillers such as paracetamol can help mask the pain, and frozen shoulder can sometimes resolve on its own within one to two years, this approach doesn’t address the underlying cause.
As an Osteopath and Naturopath who qualified in Osteopathic Medicine over 30 years ago, I am committed to identifying the root cause of the issue through non-invasive, drug-free therapies. This not only helps ease chronic pain, but also restores the body’s natural function and helps prevent recurrence.
Frozen shoulder causes
Despite its name, frozen shoulder is not caused by cold weather. Although colder months can cause the body to tighten, temperature is not the underlying cause.
Frozen shoulder occurs when the tissue surrounding the shoulder joint (glenohumeral joint) becomes inflamed. This can happen when scar-like tissue (adhesions) forms in the joint capsule, often following injury or surgery.
Restrictions within the shoulder complex may also contribute significantly to the condition.
Diabetes is another key risk factor. Research shows that people with Type 1 or Type 2 diabetes are more likely to develop frozen shoulder.
Pain and stiffness can make everyday activities such as dressing, bathing, driving, and sleeping extremely difficult.
How long does it take to heal a frozen shoulder?
Frozen shoulder develops in three stages, and recovery time varies from person to person.
- Stage one – Freezing: Shoulder movement becomes painful, often worsening at night. This stage can last between 2 and 9 months.
- Stage two – Frozen: The shoulder becomes increasingly stiff and difficult to move. This stage usually lasts 4 to 12 months.
- Stage three – Thawing: Shoulder mobility gradually improves. This stage may last 12 months or longer.
Can an osteopath help a frozen shoulder?
Pain relief medication and steroid injections may offer temporary symptom relief.
However, if you’re looking for a regulated, evidence-informed, non-pharmacological approach, osteopathy can be highly effective. Frozen shoulder is one of many conditions commonly treated by osteopaths.
Osteopathic treatment for frozen shoulder
Treatment begins with a detailed case history and full medical assessment to identify contributing factors. This is followed by a thorough evaluation of the shoulder complex, including the upper back and surrounding structures.
A core principle of osteopathy is supporting the body’s innate ability to heal. By addressing dysfunction at its source, osteopathic treatment aims to restore balance and optimise function.
Patients receive a personalised treatment plan, which may include gentle soft tissue techniques, joint articulation, and allied therapies such as Western Acupuncture and Low Level Laser Therapy.
Exercises and lifestyle advice may also be prescribed to support recovery and promote long-term wellbeing.
Frozen shoulder responds well to osteopathic treatment – supported by research
A 2022 study found that osteopathic assessment and treatment restored cervical spine mobility and relieved trapezius muscle spasm, allowing a patient to dress independently for the first time in over a year.
Another case report showed that osteopathic treatment enabled a patient to reduce and eventually stop pain medication, return to work, and restore shoulder mobility after 14 sessions.
If you’re living with frozen shoulder, don’t let it continue to affect your quality of life. Contact us to discuss your condition or book an appointment online.
*https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK532955/
**https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK326432/
***https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9815013/
