Relieving Frozen Shoulder with St Peters Chiropractic and Exercise

October 22, 2024

Frozen shoulder, or adhesive capsulitis, is a condition characterized by stiffness and pain in the shoulder joint that can significantly interfere with daily life. For sufferers the path to relief can seem daunting, but recent research suggests there are good ways that blend chiropractic care and exercise.

Understanding Frozen Shoulder

Frozen shoulder can be perplexing due to its unclear origins—though it often develops after an injury or prolonged immobility. A noteworthy study by Russo et al. (1) highlights a solid link between cervical foraminal stenosis at the C5 level and frozen shoulder, suggesting that nerve compression could be a significant risk factor, creating the term "neurogenic frozen shoulder."

The Prevalence and Impact of Shoulder Pain

Shoulder pain is a familiar complaint, particularly among younger females and those who aren’t yet 65, as noted by Hodgetts et al. (2). It’s essential to consider how occupational factors and mental health, such as depression, can exacerbate or even lead to shoulder pain. Grasping these associations is crucial for tailoring helpful treatment plans.

Chiropractic Care for Frozen Shoulder

Chiropractic care, known for its conservative approach, offers promising results for shoulder disorders, including frozen shoulder. Treatments may comprise cervicothoracic manipulation and mobilization, which have been shown to successfully ease shoulder pain of any duration. In accordance with the clinical guidelines from the Ontario Protocol for Traffic Injury Management (OPTIMa) collaboration, these techniques can deliver significant relief and aid in restoring function. (3)

The Role of Exercise in Recovery

Exercise is another pillar in handling frozen shoulder. The Cochrane Database review by Page et al. (4) points out the effectiveness of combining manual therapy with exercise to improve shoulder mobility and reduce pain. Exercises typically focus on gentle stretching and strengthening to regain range of motion and prevent further stiffness.

Laser therapy and multimodal care approaches, integrating heat/cold therapies and range of motion exercises, also provide comprehensive management for soft tissue disorders like frozen shoulder. These methods aim to enhance healing and restore normal function over time.

A Holistic Path to Relief

For those dealing with frozen shoulder, a combination of chiropractic care and tailored exercise programs presents a holistic and effective strategy. This approach not only addresses pain but also focuses on long-term mobility and function.

If you're struggling with shoulder pain or frozen shoulder, consult with your St Peters chiropractor at Old Mill Chiropractic to investigate these evidence-based options. Remember, timely intervention can block further complications and promote faster recovery. By blending St Peters chiropractic techniques and exercise into your daily routine, you can find the way towards a more pain-free life, regaining the freedom to move with ease.

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Listen to this PODCAST with Dr.  Sarah Murrow  on The Back Doctors Podcast with Dr. Michael Johnson as she shares the effectiveness of the gentle protocols of The Cox® Technic System of Spinal Pain Management for relieving neck and shoulder pain.  

Schedule your St Peters chiropractic appointment now.

References List

St Peters frozen shoulder