Frozen Shoulder (Adhesive Capsulitis) Treatment in Southampton
Frozen Shoulder (Adhesive Capsulitis) Treatment in Southampton
What is the fastest way to cure frozen shoulder?
Introduction
Frozen shoulder – also called adhesive capsulitis – is a frustrating condition that makes everyday movements painful and stiff. It often develops slowly and can last months or even years if left untreated.
At Southampton Physio, we understand how disruptive frozen shoulder can be: from struggling to reach a shelf to broken sleep from night pain. The good news is that with the right physiotherapy approach, you can speed up recovery, restore mobility and get back to living life fully.
What is frozen shoulder?
Frozen shoulder happens when the capsule of connective tissue around your shoulder joint becomes inflamed and tight. This thickening reduces the space inside the joint and restricts movement.
It is not the same as arthritis and it is different from a rotator cuff tear. Unlike an injury where one structure is damaged, frozen shoulder is a whole-joint stiffness problem.
Typical features include:
- Gradual onset of shoulder pain without clear injury
- Severe stiffness, especially lifting the arm or reaching behind
- Night pain, often disturbing sleep
- Loss of normal function in daily activities
Symptoms and stages of frozen shoulder
Freezing stage (painful stage)
- Lasts around two to nine months
- Increasing pain, especially at night
- Gradual loss of movement
Frozen stage (stiff stage)
- Lasts four to 12 months
- Pain may ease but stiffness dominates
- Daily tasks like dressing, driving and reaching overhead become very difficult
Thawing stage (recovery stage)
- Lasts five to 24 months
- Pain reduces
- Movement gradually returns, though sometimes not fully without treatment
Can physiotherapy help frozen shoulder?
Yes. Physiotherapy is the most effective and reliable way to manage frozen shoulder. While there is no instant “cure”, targeted treatment can significantly reduce pain and restore mobility faster than simply waiting it out.
At Southampton Physio, we use a combination of approaches tailored to each stage of recovery:
Education and reassurance
Pain management strategies
Movement exercises
Strength training
Lifestyle support
Treatment options in Southampton
There are several treatment options available, but physiotherapy is the foundation of recovery. Other interventions may help in certain cases:
Physiotherapy (first-line): Exercise therapy, education and manual techniques form the backbone of treatment.
Steroid injections: Can help reduce severe pain in the early stage, but the benefits are usually short-term. They work best when combined with physiotherapy.
Hydrodilatation (distension): A specialist procedure where fluid is injected into the joint capsule to improve mobility. Some studies show short-term benefits, but outcomes vary.
Surgery (last resort): Procedures such as manipulation under anaesthetic or arthroscopic release are considered only when conservative treatment has failed.
At Southampton Physio, we focus on building a treatment plan around movement, strength and education. If injections or surgical opinions are needed, we can support you with onward referral and integrated care.
Exercises for frozen shoulder
Movement is the key to recovery. The right exercises can reduce stiffness, improve circulation to the joint capsule and build confidence in using your shoulder again.
Some commonly used exercises include:
- Pendulum swings: Lean forward and gently swing the arm in small circles.
- Towel stretch: Hold a towel behind your back and gently pull upward with the other hand to encourage rotation.
- Finger walk: Face a wall and “walk” your fingers upwards as far as is comfortable.
- Cross-body reach: Use your good arm to lift the affected arm across your chest.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Should you rest or move a frozen shoulder?
Can frozen shoulder come back?
Is frozen shoulder linked to diabetes or menopause?
What’s the difference between frozen shoulder and a rotator cuff tear?
How long does frozen shoulder last?
Why choose Southampton Physio?
At Southampton Physio, we combine clinical expertise with a supportive environment that helps you move forward confidently.
Here’s what sets us apart:
- Specialist knowledge: Our clinicians see shoulder problems every week and understand the frustration frozen shoulder brings.
- Integrated care: We combine hands-on treatment, exercise therapy and fitness coaching to provide both relief and long-term change.
- Person-centred approach: We take time to understand your goals, whether that’s sleeping through the night, gardening again or getting back to tennis.
- Trusted locally: With 120+ 5★ reviews, we’re proud to be one of Southampton’s most recommended physiotherapy clinics.
Booking
Book your frozen shoulder assessment
If shoulder stiffness and pain are holding you back, don’t wait for it to “just get better”. With the right treatment, you can speed up recovery and get back to living without constant restriction.
At your first appointment, you can expect:
A thorough assessment to confirm the diagnosis and rule out other causes
Red flag screening for safety and peace of mind
Clear explanation of your stage and what it means for recovery
A tailored plan of exercises, hands-on treatment and support