The three stages
- Freezing: movement gradually reduces and the shoulder becomes more painful and stiff
- Frozen: hardly any movement remains
- Thawing: pain and stiffness slowly reduce and movement returns
How we treat it
After a full history and examination to confirm the diagnosis, treatment uses soft tissue work and mobilisation, with dry needling where appropriate. A 2014 study found dry needling effective for frozen shoulder in reducing pain and increasing range of motion.
It is better to start treatment as early as possible. Occasionally shoulder pain is caused by calcific deposits or bony changes in the joint; in those cases referral for an injection or, rarely, surgery may be needed, and you would be referred on.
Common questions
How long does frozen shoulder last?
Untreated, the whole process usually takes an average of 18 months to 2 years. With treatment it can be sped up and sometimes even stopped in its tracks.