If you’re dealing with a frozen shoulder, you’re probably tired of being told to “just stretch it” or “wait it out.” At our physiotherapy clinics in Huddersfield and Denby Dale, we take a different approach, one that actually works. We don’t just chase symptoms. We find out why your shoulder is frozen in the first place and fix it from the ground up.
So, let’s break it down properly.
What Is “Frozen Shoulder”?
Frozen shoulder, also known as adhesive capsulitis, is a condition where the shoulder becomes painful and stiff, often for months or even years. Movement becomes limited, especially in rotation or lifting your arm overhead.
It often gets worse over time and without the right treatment, it doesn’t always get better on its own.
Frozen Shoulder Symptoms
The symptoms typically come in three phases:
- Freezing stage – Shoulder pain increases and range of motion starts to decrease.
- Frozen stage – Pain may reduce, but the stiffness remains. Simple tasks like putting on a shirt or reaching up become difficult.
- Thawing stage – Gradual return of movement over time, but this can take months or years.
Other frozen shoulder symptoms include:
- Dull or aching shoulder pain (often worse at night)
- Pain when lying on the affected side
- Inability to lift the arm above shoulder height
- Sharp pain with certain movements (like fastening a seatbelt)
What Causes a Frozen Shoulder?
Here’s the key thing: frozen shoulder isn’t always about the shoulder itself.
Yes, there’s tightening and thickening of the joint capsule. But the question we ask at our clinic is: What causes a frozen shoulder to develop in the first place?
Some common frozen shoulder causes include:
- Shoulder injuries (like rotator cuff tears)
- Post-surgery immobility
- Diabetes or hormonal conditions
- Stress and nervous system sensitivity
- Compensations from other areas (neck, ribs, upper back)
So when you ask “what causes frozen shoulder?”, the answer isn’t just one thing. That’s why a cookie-cutter treatment plan won’t cut it.
Our Approach to Frozen Shoulder Physiotherapy Treatment
At our Huddersfield and Denby Dale physiotherapy clinics, we follow a system developed by Dave O’Sullivan, a world-leading physio trusted by elite athletes.
Here’s how our frozen shoulder physiotherapy treatment is different:
1. We Find the Root Cause
We don’t just treat the shoulder. We assess your whole movement system: spine, rib cage, breathing mechanics, even the nervous system to find out what’s really driving the stiffness.
2. We Calm the Nervous System
If your brain perceives threat in the shoulder area (due to past injuries, fear of movement, etc.), it can “lock down” the joint. We use specific techniques to reset this protective response. This approach is backed by emerging research that explores the interplay between the brain and immune system in frozen shoulder development.
3. We Restore Movement and Strength
Once the system is calm, we guide you through a structured plan of frozen shoulder exercises targeted, progressive, and tailored to you.
4. We Equip You for Life
You’ll leave with better movement habits, not just short-term relief. No endless passive treatments or outdated advice.
Is There a Frozen Shoulder Test?
There isn’t just one single frozen shoulder test, but as physiotherapists we use a combination of:
- Range of motion assessments
- Joint capsule testing
- Orthopaedic special tests
- Clinical history
If you suspect you’ve got a frozen shoulder, don’t guess, get it assessed properly. You’ll save time, money, and a whole lot of pain.
Best Exercise for Frozen Shoulder?
We’re often asked: “What’s the best exercise for frozen shoulder?”
The truth? It depends on which stage you’re in and what’s causing the restriction. Therefore, it’s important to be assessed by a professional to be guided in the best exercises for you to do.
⚠️ Important: Doing the wrong exercises at the wrong time can make frozen shoulder pain worse. That’s why you need a physio to guide you.
Treatment for Frozen Shoulder That Works
If you’re fed up with frozen shoulder pain, and you want a treatment plan that actually addresses the underlying cause, not just the symptoms, we can help.
At our clinics in Huddersfield and Denby Dale, we’ve helped hundreds of people get back to moving freely, sleeping better, and living without pain.
Book a physio assessment today and take the first step toward freeing your shoulder and your life.
Frequently Asked Questions About Frozen Shoulder
1. How do I know if I have a frozen shoulder?
If you’re experiencing gradual shoulder stiffness, pain that worsens at night, and difficulty with movements like reaching overhead or behind your back, you may have a frozen shoulder. A proper frozen shoulder test by a physiotherapist can confirm this.
2. What causes a frozen shoulder to develop?
A frozen shoulder can be caused by injury, surgery, prolonged immobility, or underlying conditions like diabetes. However, we often find the root issue stems from movement dysfunctions in the spine, ribs, or nervous system, not just the shoulder itself.
3. Can frozen shoulder heal on its own?
Technically yes, but it can take 12–24 months without treatment. Physiotherapy can significantly speed up recovery and reduce long-term restriction or pain.
4. What is the best treatment for frozen shoulder?
The best treatment for frozen shoulder depends on the cause and the phase you’re in. At our clinic, we focus on finding and correcting the root cause, calming the nervous system, and guiding you through progressive frozen shoulder exercises to restore mobility and strength.
5. How long does frozen shoulder physiotherapy take?
Most people start noticing improvement within a few weeks of targeted frozen shoulder physiotherapy treatment. Full recovery can take a few months, depending on how long you’ve had the condition and how consistent you are with your rehab.