How can frozen shoulder be treated?

Shiprah Lakka, a physiotherapist, offers tips on living with a frozen shoulder.

I am diabetic and have a frozen problem. How can physiotherapy help me?

Answered by Shiphrah Lakka,

Yes, definitely physiotherapy can help you. There is no magic cure but there are things you can do to spend recovery along. Frozen shoulder causes a great deal of pain and stiffness in your shoulder. Although it is very tempting to rest your shoulder and avoid all movements, this will only make your condition worse. It is important to keep your shoulder moving as immobility can lead to more stiffness, especially since you are a diabetic. It is a good idea to consult a good physiotherapist in your locality. He will plan a well-directed and focused exercise program that will reduce your pain and speed up recovery. The exercises you will be taught will depend on how much mobility you have in your shoulder. And every exercise will progressively ensure that you stretch beyond your range of motion at that time. (Read: Tips to live with chronic back pain)

Here is simple exercise to help you get started.

While standing, let your affected arm hang loosely by your side. With your arm still hanging, make very small circles with your arm (keeping the wrist straight). This will move your arm like a pendulum. Go clockwise for a while - and then anti-clockwise. Do this for two minutes. Repeat this exercise two to three times a day.

Even after you consult a physiotherapist, you must continue to perform the exercises everyday at home. If the pain is severe, use a hot pack after exercise to help the muscles relax. Recovery of frozen shoulder is slow, so it is important to be patient and religiously do the exercises several times a day. (Read: How physiotherapy works)

Image source: hubimg.com

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