Is Shoulder Pain Holding You Back? Understanding Frozen Shoulder
Shoulder pain can be a debilitating condition that affects your daily activities, but have you ever considered that it might be a more specific issue like frozen shoulder? This condition, also known as adhesive capsulitis, can severely limit your range of motion and lead to chronic discomfort.
What Is Frozen Shoulder?
Frozen shoulder occurs when the connective tissue surrounding the shoulder joint becomes thickened and inflamed, causing stiffness and pain. It typically develops gradually and can significantly impact your quality of life. According to a study published in the Journal of Orthopaedic Research, frozen shoulder affects about 2% to 5% of the general population, with a higher prevalence among individuals aged 40 to 60 years.
#### The Stages of Frozen Shoulder
Frozen shoulder typically progresses through three stages:
1. *Freezing Stage*: Pain begins to increase, and range of motion starts to decrease.
2. *Frozen Stage*: Pain may begin to diminish, but the shoulder remains stiff.
3. *Thawing Stage*: Range of motion gradually returns, and pain decreases.
Research indicates that the entire process can take anywhere from six months to three years, making early intervention critical. A study in Physical Therapy highlighted that early diagnosis and treatment can significantly shorten recovery time.
The Role of Manual Therapy and Exercise
At *Bubu Wellness Centre*, we understand the complexities of frozen shoulder and offer a comprehensive approach to treatment. While manual therapy is a cornerstone of our practice, we also emphasise the importance of tailored exercise programmes.
Research reflects that a combination of manual therapy and specific exercises can enhance recovery. A systematic review published in the Journal of Rehabilitation Medicine found that patients who engaged in a structured exercise regimen alongside manual therapy experienced faster improvements in pain and range of motion compared to those who only received manual treatment.
Why Home Exercise Matters
One of the unique aspects of our approach at Bubu Wellness Centre is our commitment to empowering patients with exercises they can perform at home. These exercises not only complement the manual therapy sessions but also promote long-term recovery and prevent future issues.
Studies have shown that adherence to a home exercise programme can significantly improve outcomes in patients with frozen shoulder. A randomised controlled trial in the British Journal of Sports Medicine demonstrated that patients who followed a prescribed home exercise routine showed greater improvements in shoulder function than those who did not.
#### Conclusion
If shoulder pain is impacting your life, it’s essential to consider the possibility of frozen shoulder. At Bubu Wellness Centre, we combine expert manual therapy with personalised exercise prescriptions to help you regain mobility and alleviate pain. Don’t let shoulder pain hold you back—let us help you on your journey to recovery!
If you have any questions or would like to schedule a consultation, please feel free to reach out to us today!
