What is Frozen Shoulder?
Frozen shoulder, or adhesive capsulitis, is a condition that causes pain, stiffness, and restricted movement in the shoulder joint. It occurs when the shoulder capsule (the connective tissue surrounding the joint) becomes inflamed and tightens, limiting mobility.
Frozen shoulder typically develops in three stages:
Freezing stage: Pain gradually increases, and shoulder movement becomes limited.
Frozen stage: Pain may decrease, but stiffness becomes more severe, making movement difficult.
Thawing stage: Range of motion slowly improves, and stiffness begins to ease over time.
The entire process can take several months to years to fully resolve without appropriate intervention.
Common Causes and Risk Factors
Injury or surgery: Post-surgical patients may develop frozen shoulder due to immobility.
Diabetes: People with diabetes are at a higher risk of developing the condition.
Age and gender: Most common in adults between 40-60 years, particularly in women.
Sedentary lifestyle or immobilisation: Prolonged periods of inactivity, such as after fractures or injuries, can trigger the condition.
How Physiotherapy and Clinical Pilates at Body Form Can Help
At Body Form, we offer a multifaceted approach to treating frozen shoulder through physiotherapy and Clinical Pilates. Our goal is to restore mobility, reduce pain, and rebuild strength gradually and safely.
Physiotherapy Treatment for Frozen Shoulder
Our physiotherapists use a combination of manual therapy and targeted exercises to help patients through each phase of frozen shoulder.
Joint mobilisation techniques: Gentle hands-on treatments to restore mobility in the shoulder.
Stretching programs: Focused on loosening tight muscles and tissues.
Pain management strategies: Incorporating dry needling, massage, and taping for relief.
Posture correction: Improving upper body alignment to prevent future issues.
Clinical Pilates for Recovery and Prevention
Once pain is under control, Clinical Pilates becomes an essential part of recovery. Guided by our physiotherapists and expert instructors, these sessions are tailored to each client’s needs and phase of recovery.
Gentle, progressive movements: Designed to restore shoulder mobility and minimise discomfort.
Postural strengthening: Builds strength in the upper body and core to support shoulder health.
Controlled mobility exercises: Improve flexibility and coordination while maintaining stability.
Mindful movement training: Teaches clients to move efficiently, reducing strain on the shoulders.
Why Choose Body Form?
At Body Form, our Clinical Pilates and physiotherapy team work together to provide holistic, evidence-based care. Each program is personalised, with a focus on gradual improvement and long-term relief. Whether you are at the early stages of frozen shoulder or working toward full recovery, we’re here to support your journey.
Frozen shoulder can be frustrating, but with the right care, it doesn’t have to be a long-term struggle. At Body Form, our integrated physiotherapy and Clinical Pilates programs are designed to reduce pain, restore mobility, and prevent recurrence, helping you regain control of your movement.
If you’re experiencing shoulder pain or stiffness, contact us today to book an assessment and start your recovery journey.
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