Frozen Shoulder aka Adhesive Capsulitis
Frozen shoulder, also known as adhesive capsulitis, is a condition that causes stiffness, pain, and limited range of motion in the shoulder joint. It often develops gradually and can severely impact daily activities like lifting, reaching, or even sleeping comfortably. Massage therapy can play a vital role in relieving pain, improving mobility, and supporting the recovery process.
What Is Frozen Shoulder?
Frozen shoulder occurs when the capsule surrounding the shoulder joint becomes inflamed and thickened, leading to the formation of scar tissue. This restricts the movement of the shoulder and causes significant pain, especially when trying to move the arm. The condition often progresses in three stages: freezing (pain and limited motion), frozen (stiffness), and thawing (gradual improvement).
Common Symptoms of Frozen Shoulder:
- Pain and Tenderness: Pain is often felt in the shoulder, especially when attempting to lift or rotate the arm. The pain may worsen at night.
- Limited Range of Motion: Difficulty in reaching overhead, behind the back, or to the side due to the stiffness in the shoulder joint.
- Muscle Weakness: The shoulder muscles may weaken over time due to lack of use, contributing to decreased strength and mobility.
- Stiffness: Gradual loss of flexibility in the shoulder joint, making everyday tasks like dressing or brushing your hair challenging.
Common Causes and Risk Factors:
- Age & Gender: Frozen shoulder is more common in people between the ages of 40 and 60 and is more frequently seen in women.
- Injury or Surgery: A shoulder injury or surgery, such as rotator cuff surgery or a broken arm, can increase the risk of developing frozen shoulder due to immobility during recovery.
- Chronic Health Conditions: Conditions like diabetes, thyroid disorders, or cardiovascular disease may increase the risk of developing frozen shoulder.
- Prolonged Immobility: Keeping the shoulder immobilized for an extended period, such as after an injury, can contribute to the development of this condition.
How Massage Therapy Can Help:
- Relieves Pain and Inflammation: Therapeutic massage can help reduce the inflammation in the shoulder joint and surrounding muscles, alleviating pain and discomfort.
- Improves Circulation: Increased blood flow to the shoulder area encourages healing by delivering oxygen and nutrients that promote tissue repair and reduce stiffness.
- Restores Range of Motion: Massage techniques such as myofascial release and deep tissue work can help stretch and loosen the tight muscles and connective tissues around the shoulder, gradually improving flexibility and mobility.
- Reduces Muscle Tension: Muscle tightness in the shoulder, neck, and upper back often develops as a result of trying to compensate for the limited range of motion. Targeted massage helps relieve this tension and restores balance to the muscles.
- Promotes Relaxation: Chronic pain and limited movement can cause muscle guarding and stress. Massage therapy can help reduce stress and promote a feeling of relaxation, which aids in the healing process.
If you’re struggling with the pain and stiffness of frozen shoulder, massage therapy can help speed up your recovery and improve your quality of life. Contact us today to schedule an appointment.
