Frozen shoulder (adhesive capsulitis) causes pain and stiffness that makes it hard to lift your arm, reach behind your back or sleep on that side. It is more common between the ages of 40 and 60, and in people with diabetes or thyroid problems.
The three stages
- Freezing: pain builds and movement gets harder. Pain is often worse at night.
- Frozen: pain may ease, but the shoulder stays stiff.
- Thawing: movement slowly returns.
The whole process can take many months, sometimes longer. Physiotherapy cannot skip the stages, but it can help you manage pain, keep as much movement as possible and get back to daily tasks sooner.
Is it frozen shoulder or something else?
Rotator cuff problems, arthritis and pain referred from the neck can feel similar. A proper assessment matters, because the treatment is different. We check how your shoulder moves on its own and with help, and refer you for a scan or a doctor’s review if needed.
How physiotherapy helps
- Gentle stretching and mobility work, matched to your stage so you do not flare the pain
- Manual therapy to ease stiffness
- Strengthening of the shoulder and upper back as movement returns
- A home programme of a few short exercises you can repeat through the day
- Advice on sleep positions and everyday tasks such as dressing
If your doctor suggests an injection, physiotherapy works well alongside it.
When should I get help?
If shoulder pain or stiffness has lasted more than a few weeks, or stops you sleeping or working, get it assessed. If you have diabetes, keeping your blood sugar well controlled also helps.
Read more about our chronic pain management in Karachi.
Struggling to lift your arm? Book an assessment at Zaki Clinic on WhatsApp or call (0323) 281-7359.
This article is general information and does not replace a clinical assessment.