Frozen Shoulder

Frozen Shoulder or Adhesive Capsulitis of the Shoulder

Adhesive Capsulitis is a condition that can affect almost any joint in the body. However, the focus of this section will be on Adhesive Capsulitis of the shoulder.

Most joints of the body are surrounded by a watertight sac that bathes the joint in nutritious fluid. This sac is called a capsule. Irritation of this capsule can lead to an inflammatory condition called “capsulitis”. Chronic inflammation of the capsule can lead to the accumulation of scar-tissue within and around the joint. This condition is known as Adhesive (as in scar-tissue adhesions) Capsulitis (inflammation of the capsule).

A severe Adhesive Capsulitis can progress into a condition where the shoulder becomes severely limited in its motion. This condition is sometimes referred to as Frozen Shoulder. Both conditions often respond well to similar treatment methods. However, Frozen Shoulder is often much more serious and can takes months to recover from. Remember: Early intervention is the key to avoiding a Frozen Shoulder – don’t wait until it’s too late!

Shoulder problems can be caused by many everyday activities. These activities include traumatic events (e.g. fall on an outstretched arm, “yanking” of the arm), repetitive motions (e.g. throwing a ball, weightlifting, swimming) and chronic, improper postures (e.g. operating a computer, driving).

Treatment for Frozen Shoulder

Restoring the shoulder to proper function and motion requires a combined approach that addresses both the joint mechanics AND the muscles that support joint function. Joint mechanics are best corrected with corrective chiropractic adjustments. Active Release muscle therapy is effective at reducing the scar-tissue “stickiness” within the joint and surrounding the capsule.

Chiropractic adjustment includes hundreds of ways of using carefully directed and controlled pressure to restore joints to normal motion and position. It also alleviates strain on surrounding muscles that are overworked in their efforts to compensate for joint dysfunction.

Deep Tissue therapy of the muscles, ligaments, and fascia is specifically used to restore function to dysfunctional muscles – often by “breaking up” scar-tissue.  Patients often notice improvement in their levels of pain, flexibility and strength within seconds following the treatment.