Are you suffering from a dull, aching pain in your shoulder and your upper arm? It is possible that you may be suffering from a condition commonly referred to as frozen shoulder. Medically known as adhesive capsulitis, frozen shoulder refers to a stiffness and pain in the shoulder that limits the range of motion. The tissues around the joint stiffen and scar tissue forms, making motion painful and difficult. If you think that you are suffering from frozen shoulder, making an appointment at one of our Smithtown or Selden physical therapists who can help you prevent these symptoms from worsening.

Frozen shoulder occurs for a variety of reasons and in a variety of people:

• It can occur when one stops using the joint normally due to injury
• It can occur after surgery or injury
• It often occurs in postmenopausal women, and in people ages 40-70
• It often occurs in people with chronic diseases, such as diabetes
• It can develop after an injury if full range of motion is not restored or no attempts are made to restore it

Frozen shoulder occurs within three separate stages:

• The freezing stage typically lasts between 6 weeks and 9 months. It is most notably marked by an increase in pain and a decrease in range of motion.
• The frozen stage typically lasts between 4 and 6 months. During this stage, pain may alleviate but the stiffness continues, making it harder to complete daily activities.
• The thawing stage lasts between 6 months and 2 years. Shoulder motion slowly improves and finally returns to normal during this final stage.

While frozen shoulder is able to fully heal on its own, the process can be long and painful, possibly taking up to even three years. Typical treatment includes medication to alleviate pain as well as physical therapy. Therapy can aid in restoring full range of motion through heat therapy and stretching exercises.

Think you may have frozen shoulder? Tired of dealing with the pain and being limited in your daily activities? At Block Chiropractic Sports & Wellness our licensed, experienced, and knowledgeable Smithtown and Selden physical therapists and chiropractors are equipped with the skills and tools to treat your frozen shoulder. Call our Selden office at 631-696-4371 or our Smithtown office at 631-543-0004 to schedule an appointment today and restore your full range of motion!