Frozen shoulder, or adhesive capsulitis, is a condition that can significantly limit your ability to move and use your shoulder comfortably. Chiropractic care offers a non-invasive, effective approach to managing frozen shoulder, improving mobility, and reducing pain. By addressing the underlying causes, chiropractic techniques can help individuals regain shoulder function and reduce the discomfort associated with this frustrating condition. In this blog, we’ll explore how chiropractic care can assist in the treatment of frozen shoulder, the techniques used by chiropractors, and what to expect during treatment.
Understanding Frozen Shoulder
Frozen shoulder, also known as adhesive capsulitis, is a condition characterized by stiffness and pain in the shoulder joint. It typically develops gradually and can worsen over time before eventually resolving. The exact cause is not always clear, but it can be associated with:
- Injury or Surgery: Trauma or surgery can lead to immobility, increasing the risk of developing frozen shoulder.
- Medical Conditions: Conditions like diabetes, thyroid disorders, heart disease, and Parkinson’s disease can increase the likelihood of developing frozen shoulder.
- Prolonged Immobility: Keeping the shoulder immobile for an extended period, such as after an arm fracture, can lead to the development of frozen shoulder.
How Chiropractic Care Helps Treat Frozen Shoulder
Chiropractic care can be effective in treating frozen shoulder by improving joint mobility, reducing pain, and promoting the healing process. Chiropractors use various techniques to address the underlying issues causing the stiffness and pain. Here’s how it helps:
- Restoring Joint Mobility: Gentle manual manipulations target the shoulder joint, improving flexibility and range of motion. This helps loosen the tight adhesions that limit movement.
- Relieving Pain and Stiffness: Chiropractors use techniques like soft tissue therapy to target tense muscles and reduce stiffness, easing the pain commonly associated with frozen shoulder.
- Promoting Natural Healing: By enhancing blood flow and reducing inflammation, chiropractic care accelerates the body’s healing process, helping to repair damaged tissues more efficiently.
- Customizing Treatment Plans: Chiropractors create tailored treatment plans, combining mobilizations, soft tissue therapy, and exercises to restore function and address each individual’s unique condition.
- Improving Overall Shoulder Function: Chiropractic care strengthens and stabilizes the shoulder, improving overall function and reducing the likelihood of future injuries or recurrences.
This comprehensive approach not only addresses frozen shoulder symptoms but also supports long-term recovery and shoulder health.
Chiropractic Techniques Used for Frozen Shoulder
Chiropractors use a variety of targeted techniques to relieve frozen shoulder pain and restore mobility.
- Manual Manipulation: Gentle manipulation of the shoulder joint to improve range of motion.
- Soft Tissue Therapy: Techniques like massage or myofascial release to reduce muscle tension and improve circulation.
- Stretching and Strengthening Exercises: Customized exercises to improve flexibility and strength.
- Cupping and Acupuncture: Cupping and acupuncture can reduce pain, tension and inflammation.
How Long Does It Take to See Improvements in Frozen Shoulder with Chiropractic Care?
The time it takes to see improvements can vary based on the severity of the condition and the individual’s response to treatment. Generally, people may start to notice improvements within a few weeks of consistent chiropractic care, but full recovery can take several months.
For moderate cases of frozen shoulder, noticeable progress in range of motion and pain reduction can often be seen after about 4 to 6 weeks of regular chiropractic treatment. However, it’s important to understand that frozen shoulder is a condition that progresses through different stages, and full recovery can take several months. In some cases, individuals may require ongoing care for 3 to 6 months, depending on how well their body responds to treatment and their adherence to recommended home exercises and lifestyle adjustments.
During treatment, chiropractors continuously monitor progress and make adjustments to the treatment plan as necessary to ensure steady improvement. For people with more severe or long-standing cases of frozen shoulder, treatment may take longer, but regular chiropractic care can help expedite recovery compared to leaving the condition untreated.
Chiropractic Sessions for Frozen Shoulder: What to Expect
During a chiropractic session, you can expect:
- Initial Assessment: The chiropractor will conduct a thorough evaluation of your shoulder, including range of motion tests and medical history review.
- Personalized Treatment Plan: A customized plan will be created based on your specific condition and needs.
- Treatment Sessions: These may include manual manipulation, soft tissue therapy, and guided exercises.
- Progress Monitoring: Regular assessments to track your progress and adjust the treatment plan as needed.
Can Chiropractic Care Be Combined with Other Treatments for Frozen Shoulder?
Yes, chiropractic care can be effectively combined with other treatments such as physiotherapy, medications, and home exercises. A multidisciplinary approach can often provide the best outcomes.
Preventing the Recurrence of Frozen Shoulder: The Role of Chiropractic Care
Chiropractic care can help prevent the recurrence of frozen shoulder by maintaining joint mobility and addressing any underlying issues that may contribute to stiffness and pain. Regular chiropractic check-ups and following prescribed exercises can be beneficial.
Lifestyle Changes to Support Chiropractic Treatment for Frozen Shoulder
Incorporating healthy lifestyle habits can complement chiropractic care and aid in the recovery from frozen shoulder.
- Regular Exercise: Engaging in regular physical activity to maintain flexibility and strength.
- Healthy Diet: Eating a balanced diet to support overall health and reduce inflammation.
- Posture Awareness: Maintaining good posture to reduce strain on the shoulder.
- Stress Management: Practicing stress-reducing techniques like yoga or meditation to prevent muscle tension.
Your Partner in Recovery
If you’re struggling with the pain and stiffness of frozen shoulder, chiropractic care could be the solution you’ve been seeking. At Body Science Therapy in Mississauga, our experienced chiropractors use tailored techniques to help restore shoulder mobility, alleviate pain, and support the healing process. Whether you’ve developed frozen shoulder due to an injury, prolonged immobility, or an underlying medical condition, our team is here to create a customized treatment plan that works for you.Don’t let frozen shoulder limit your life any longer. Contact us today to schedule your appointment and take the first step toward a full recovery.
