Frozen shoulder makes the shoulder painful and stiff, often for many months. It tends to move through three stages, and the right treatment depends on which one you are in.
The stages
- Freezing: pain builds and movement starts to reduce. The focus is easing pain and keeping gentle movement.
- Frozen: pain eases but the shoulder is very stiff. Stretching and strength work start to matter more.
- Thawing: movement slowly returns. Progressive exercise helps you get full use back.
A Physiotherapist can confirm the diagnosis, rule out other causes and adjust your plan as you move between stages.
This article is general information, not a diagnosis. If you're in pain, a Physiotherapist can assess you properly and tell you what will help.