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Frozen Shoulder Treatment in Perth

Adhesive capsulitis is painful and slow -- but the right physiotherapy significantly reduces how long it takes and how much it hurts.

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Frozen Shoulder

Frozen Shoulder Treatment in Perth

Frozen shoulder (adhesive capsulitis) is a condition characterised by progressive shoulder stiffness and pain caused by thickening and tightening of the shoulder joint capsule. It typically progresses through three stages -- freezing, frozen, and thawing -- over 1--3 years if untreated.

While frozen shoulder does tend to resolve on its own eventually, physiotherapy significantly shortens the process and reduces pain throughout. The right treatment depends on which stage you're in -- which is why accurate assessment matters from the outset.

Frozen Shoulder
Frozen Shoulder

Causes

Common Causes of Frozen Shoulder

Idiopathic (unknown cause -- most common)
Post-injury immobilisation
Post-surgery stiffening
Diabetes (significant risk factor)
Thyroid dysfunction
Autoimmune factors
Prolonged arm immobilisation

Our Approach

The Move Process

01
Stage Assessment
Identifying the stage of frozen shoulder (freezing, frozen, or thawing) determines the appropriate treatment approach.
02
Pain Management
In the freezing stage, pain management is the priority. Joint mobilisation, dry needling, and movement guidance to maintain what range you have.
03
Mobilisation
In the frozen and thawing stages, progressive joint mobilisation and capsular stretching to restore range of motion systematically.
04
Strengthening & Function
Rotator cuff and scapular strengthening to restore full shoulder function as mobility returns.

Why Move Physiotherapy

What sets us apart

✦
Stage-Specific Management
Frozen shoulder treatment differs significantly depending on the stage. Aggressive stretching in the freezing stage is counterproductive. We treat the stage, not just the symptom -- adjusting approach as you progress.
✦
Corticosteroid Referral
Corticosteroid injections have the strongest evidence in the acute-inflammatory (freezing) stage and can significantly reduce pain and accelerate the process. We facilitate referral when injection is likely to be beneficial.
✦
Hydrodilatation Coordination
For patients who have not responded adequately to conservative management and injection, hydrodilatation (distension arthrography) is a more aggressive injection procedure with good evidence. We coordinate referral to appropriate radiologists.
✦
Capsular Stretching Program
Specific capsular stretching in the thawing phase -- targeting the inferior and posterior capsule -- is essential for restoring full range of motion. We provide structured programs that are effective but not aggravating.
✦
Realistic Timeline Guidance
Frozen shoulder is slow, and honest communication about the timeline is important. We give you realistic expectations while ensuring you have the treatment and support needed to get through it as quickly as possible.
✦
Diabetes Management Awareness
Frozen shoulder is significantly more common and more severe in patients with diabetes. We are aware of this association and adapt our management approach accordingly.

Common Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does frozen shoulder last?+
Untreated, frozen shoulder typically progresses through three stages -- freezing (painful), frozen (stiff), and thawing (gradual improvement) -- over a period of 1-3 years. With appropriate physiotherapy, corticosteroid injection, and in some cases hydrodilatation, this timeline can be significantly shortened. The majority of patients managed actively achieve full or near-full recovery. Without treatment, some degree of residual stiffness may persist. The earlier treatment begins, particularly in the freezing stage, the better the outcome.
Can I prevent frozen shoulder from getting worse?+
Yes, to a significant extent. The most important factors are: avoiding complete immobilisation (prolonged rest worsens capsular tightening), maintaining as much active range of motion as is comfortable, controlling pain adequately (often through injection in the acute stage) to allow movement, and commencing a structured physiotherapy program early. Activities that involve sustained overhead or behind-the-back positions should be modified. Your physiotherapist will guide you on what movements to maintain and which to temporarily restrict based on your current stage.
Will I get full range of motion back?+
The majority of patients with frozen shoulder -- particularly those who engage with treatment -- regain full or near-full range of motion. Long-term follow-up studies show that approximately 90% of patients achieve a satisfactory outcome within 3 years. With active management including physiotherapy, injection, and where necessary hydrodilatation, most patients achieve good functional recovery within 12-18 months. A small proportion (estimated 5-10%) may have some residual stiffness, typically in external rotation and overhead range, but this rarely causes significant functional limitation.
Is frozen shoulder more common in diabetics?+
Yes, significantly so. Frozen shoulder affects approximately 2-5% of the general population but up to 10-20% of people with diabetes -- both type 1 and type 2. It also tends to be more severe, more prolonged, and more likely to be bilateral in diabetic patients. The mechanism is thought to relate to glycosylation of collagen in the joint capsule, which increases capsular fibrosis. Managing blood glucose levels is therefore relevant to both prevention and management. Physiotherapists managing diabetic patients with frozen shoulder should be aware of these differences and set appropriately adjusted expectations.

Ready to get moving?

Beeliar, Booragoon and East Fremantle -- early morning, evening and Saturday appointments available.

Book OnlineCall 08 6113 8062