Pain and stiffness in the shoulder are challenging physical conditions that can negatively affect daily life. This condition, known as adhesive capsulitis or “frozen shoulder,” is caused by a thickening of the connective tissues around the shoulder joint. The ensuing tightness causes pain and stiffness, effectively restricting the movement of the shoulder. While the cause is still unknown, there is a correlation between shoulder immobilization (healing from a broken arm, for example) and frozen shoulder.
Most people experienced reduced symptoms and healing given enough time. However, waiting years for relief is not a prospect that many people enjoy. To expedite recovery and reduce pain at the moment, those who suffer from frozen shoulders seek treatment in the form of exercise, medications, and even surgery.
Given its impressive record of bettering musculoskeletal issues, chiropractic care is frequently considered a potential treatment for frozen shoulder. The question is, will chiropractic adjustment fix your frozen shoulder?
Before Visiting a Chiropractor for Frozen Shoulder
Frozen shoulder can be confused with other shoulder issues, including tendinitis and rotator cuff tears. As such, it is important to receive an affirmative diagnosis before seeking treatment for frozen shoulder specifically.
Once diagnosed, being familiarized with the three stages of frozen shoulder is also essential. They are the freezing stage, where symptoms gradually worsen from minor pain to loss of movement and strength; the frozen stage, where movement is restricted and pain is significant; and the thawing stage, where improvement occurs on its own. Each of these stages can endure for months.
Chiropractic Care for Frozen Shoulder
Visiting the chiropractor is a common choice for patients with frozen shoulder, and for good reason. As a joint issue accompanied by pain and stiffness, it is only natural to seek help from experts in exactly those things. Thankfully, chiropractic care is not just a popular treatment for frozen shoulder; it is an effective one.
Treating Adhesive Capsulitis with Chiropractic Care
Part of what makes chiropractic care so effective when treating frozen shoulder is its comprehensive approach. Rather than fixating on only one symptom—pain, for example—a chiropractor will address all the symptoms and the underlying causes. By manipulating the shoulder joint and muscle tissue, as well as concentrating on the connective tissue, a chiropractor can help frozen shoulder patients regain mobility, reduce their pain, and even speed up their recovery process. In these ways, chiropractic care is more thorough than alternatives like injections or medications.
Chiropractic Care – One Piece of the Frozen Shoulder Puzzle
Relying on an experienced chiropractor is an excellent step toward frozen shoulder recovery. Most patients will reap the benefits of chiropractic care even if that is the only assistance they seek. However, taking advantage of chiropractic adjustment in conjunction with other treatments, particularly physical therapy, can be a winning combination.
Together, chiropractic care and physical therapy address the root cause of adhesive capsulitis, helping patients recover more quickly and in a more sustainable manner. In addition to releasing the tension and relieving the pain associated with the condition, this combination of treatments helps strengthen the joint and prevent frozen shoulder from recurring.
Whether you are suffering from a frozen shoulder or trying to prevent it from ever returning, discussing potential treatments with your trusted chiropractor is a great place to begin your journey toward a healthier future. They can evaluate your risk factors and help you develop a plan for stronger, healthier, pain-free shoulders. Dr. Eric utilizes many modalities to free up frozen shoulders, including Active Release Technique, functional movement assessment and cupping. He builds a plan that is right for you.