What is Frozen Shoulder and How Can You Treat It Naturally?

Adhesive capsulitis, commonly known as frozen shoulder, leads to pain, stiffness, and restricted movement in the shoulder. It usually progresses slowly and can greatly disrupt everyday tasks and overall well-being. While treatment such as physical therapy and injections is common, many people seek natural approaches to ease discomfort and elevate healing. In this article, we will learn more about a frozen shoulder, its causes, symptoms and natural ways to treat it. 

What is Frozen Shoulder? 

Frozen shoulder is a condition that makes the shoulder joint stiff, painful and difficult to move. This condition occurs when the connective tissues surrounding the shoulder joint become inflamed and tighten, restricting movement and causing sharp or dull pain. It usually develops slowly in different stages: 

• Freezing Stage: In this stage, the pain gradually increases while movement reduces. This stage lasts from 6 weeks to 9 months. 

• Frozen Stage: Here, the pain may decrease slightly, but stiffness remains. Daily activities become difficult, lasting from 4 to 6 months. 

• Thawing Stage: This is the last stage in which shoulder movement gradually improves, reducing the pain. This stage can last 6 months to 2 years. 

Frozen Shoulder Causes 

Frozen shoulder causes are unknown. However, several factors and conditions are linked to its development. 

Immobility 

Keeping the shoulder immobile for an extended period. Things like injuries, surgery or pain can lead to immobilisation of the shoulder, causing frozen shoulders. 

Age and Gender 

Age is also one of the common reasons for developing frozen shoulder. The most common ages affected are between 40 and 60 years. And more than men, women are affected by this condition. 

Medical Condition 

Certain medical conditions also increase the risk of developing frozen shoulder. Diseases such as diabetes, thyroid, parkinson, and heart issues can develop the condition.  

Trauma 

Any conditions, such as rotator cuff tear, fracture, or post-surgery recovery, can lead to frozen shoulder. 

Repetitive Strain 

Repetitive strain can affect shoulder alignment and mechanics, contributing to capsule irritation and immobility in the shoulder. 

Frozen Shoulder Symptoms 

Now let’s check out the general frozen shoulder symptoms seen in most patients: 

• Pain and stiffness in the shoulder. 

• Muscle weakness around the shoulder due to disuse. 

• Sleep disturbance at night due to pain. 

• Limited range of motion, whether you move your shoulder or someone else is trying to move it. 

Natural Ways to Treat Frozen Shoulder 

Though plenty of conventional medicines are available, people tend to incline towards natural frozen shoulder treatments. Here are a few natural ways to treat frozen shoulder. 

Gentle Stretching and Exercises 

Gentle stretching and exercises are one of the most effective frozen shoulder treatments. Stretching, regular mobility and exercises help maintain and gradually restore shoulder flexibility. Some beneficial frozen shoulder exercises include: 

Pendulum Stretch 

• Stand beside a table or a chair and lean forward slightly, allowing your affected arm to hang down freely. 

• Now, gently swing your arms forward and backwards, side to side and in small circles. 

• Swing your arm in each direction for about 30 seconds to 1 minute. 

Finger Walk 

• Stand facing a wall at an arm’s distance.. 

• Place the fingers of the affected arm on the wall at waist or chest height. 

• Now, slowly walk your fingers up the wall, and go as high as you are comfortable. 

• When you reach the highest comfortable point, hold for a few seconds and walk your fingers back down. 

Towel Stretch 

• Grab a 2 to 3-foot-long towel and hold it with both hands behind your back. 

• Hold the towel horizontally and pull it with your unaffected hand. 

• Gently pull the affected arm to stretch it. 

Cross-Body Shoulder Stretch 

• Sit or stand with your shoulders relaxed. 

• Now, slowly, use your good arm and lift your affected arm across your chest. 

• Pull it across your chest gently until you feel a mild stretch and hold it for 15-30 seconds. 

Heat and Cold Therapy 

Besides frozen shoulder exercises, heat and cold therapy can also help reduce inflammation and pain. Heat therapy increases blood flow and relaxes tight muscles. Cold therapy reduces inflammation and numbs sore areas. 

Acupuncture and Massage Therapy 

Acupuncture and massage therapy also help to relieve frozen shoulder symptoms. They increase the blood flow in the affected area to encourage healing. 

Natural Supplements and a Healthy Diet 

Natural supplements with anti-inflammatory properties, omega-3 fatty acids, and magnesium support joint health. Apart from that, maintaining a healthy diet also contributes to overall joint health. 

Conclusion 

Frozen shoulder can be a debilitating condition that requires a lot of patience and consistency to overcome. Natural treatments like exercises, cold & heat therapy, massage & acupuncture, and a healthy diet and natural supplements can help you move ahead on the road of recovery. 

Is shoulder pain holding you back? Visit the best ortho doctor in Kanpur at Regency Healthcare and get effective treatment for frozen shoulder.

You may also read: How physiotherapy can help with pain relief and better mobility