What is Adhesive capsulitis?

Adhesive capsulitis, also known as frozen Shoulder, is a disorder of the shoulder in which the capsule surrounding the joint becomes inflamed and stiff.  As the condition worsens range of motion of the shoulder is severely reduced.  The exact cause of frozen shoulder is unknown.  However, there are a number of risk factors for this problem including diabetes, stroke, trauma, lung disease, connective tissue disorders and heart disease.  Frozen shoulder usually occurs in 3 phases:

People with Frozen Shouler typically lift the entire shoulder girdle when attempting to lift the shoulder.

1. The Freezing Phase: This is the most painful stage.  Pain occurs with any movement and there is a gradual reduction in range of motion.
2. The Frozen Stage: During this stage the pain in the shoulder gradually decreases.  However, the shoulder is extremely stiff during this stage.
3. The Thawing Stage: During this stage range of motion of the shoulder gradually returns to normal.

Each stage can last months and full resolution can take over a year.

What is The Best Treatment For Adhesive Capsulitis?

Physical therapy can be very effective in decreasing the duration of frozen shoulder as well as improving function during this period.  However, it is important that the physical therapist use effective treatment techniques.  A recent study in the Physical Therapy Journal examined the records of 2,370 patients (That’s alot of patients!) with adhesive capsulitis to see which treatments were effective in decreasing pain and improving function and which treatments were not effective.

The treatments that increased the likelihood of pain reduction and improved function were:

1. Joint mobilization performed by a licensed physical therapist.
2. Exercise

The treatments that decreased the likelihood of pain reduction and improved function were:

1. Ultrasound
2. Massage
3. Iontophoresis (Delivery of steroid with electrical stimulation)
4. Phonophoresis (Delivery of steroid with ultrasound)

You can view a synopsis of the article here.

If you think you may have adhesive capsulitis (frozen shoulder) we would be glad to help you. Please contact Belmar Physical Therapy at (303) 274-2404.

If you desire a long and successful career in baseball, at any level, read further to see how Belmar Physical Therapy can help you achieve your goals.

In the last two decades, top level managers have focused less on speed and more on injury prevention for success in the sport of baseball.

My Shoulder Already Hurts, What Do I Do?

Even if you’re currently experiencing shoulder pain, it’s not too late!

Many injuries can be successfully treated with a well-structured and carefully implemented non-operative rehabilitation program by a Physical Therapist.

The overhead throwing motion is an extremely skillful and intricate movement that is very stressful on the shoulder joint complex.

The overhead athlete places extraordinary demands on this complex. The thrower’s shoulder must be loose enough to allow extreme motion, but be stable at the same time. This requires a delicate balance. Experts refer to this balance as the “thrower’s paradox.”

Scientific studies show that changes occur in the shoulder from the repetitive microtrauma that occurs during overhead throwing.

The Types of Injuries That Occur Are:

1. Anterior Instability
2. Impingement
3. Biceps Tensonitis
4. Rotator Cuff Tendonitis

The physical therapists at Belmar Physical Therapy continuously review the scientific literature in order to provide the most successful treatment possible. Physical therapy treatment focuses on the restoration of normal movement of the shoulder complex during the rehabilitation program.

The Treatment Consists of:

1. Controlling inflammation.
2. Restoring muscle balance.
3. Improving soft tissue flexibility.
4. Improving strength of the throwing muscles.
5. Enhancing control of the shoulder complex.

Call Belmar Physical Therapy today at (303) 274-2404 to start improving your performance through injury prevention or treatment.