Conditions resulting from shoulder hypomobility generally fall under the “frozen shoulder” category. Frozen shoulder serves as an umbrella term for disorders such as rotator cuff tendonitis and tears, biceps tendonitis and tears, and other painful shoulder syndromes.
Has 3 stages:
Pain phase – Inflammation of synovial lining, thickening of joint capsule, synovial fluid loss, and decreased range of motion
Frozen phase – Thickening of rotator cuff tendons, loss of joint space, and joint capsule fibrosis are seen. Individual may experience decrease pain.
Resolution phase – Joint ROM increases and individual gradually returns to normal daily activities.
symptoms
Slow pain onset
Inability to sleep on affected side
Painful, restricted movements (particularly shoulder elevation and external rotation)
causes
Previous shoulder or arm injury
Risk factors:
Old age
Women
Some chronic health conditions (e.g., diabetes, thyroid conditions, etc.)
treatment
Physiotherapy
Acupuncture
Daily activity modification
how does physiotherapy help?
Manual therapy can help relieve tension in stiff muscles of the shoulders, neck, and back, as well as improve blood circulation to promote healing and reduce pain
Intramuscular stimulation (IMS) induces local inflammation to improve blood flow, aid in healing, and reduce pain
Promotes relaxation of the injured and surrounding muscles, reducing any spinal nerve or joint compression, and thus allows for improved mobility
Ice/heat therapy improves blood flow and reduces pain
Exercise prescription and modification will help in strengthening muscles of the neck, upper back and shoulders, which is beneficial to help improve strength, gain stability, and enhance range of motion