Frozen Shoulder: Causes, Symptoms, and Home Remedies

If you’ve been struggling with shoulder stiffness and pain, especially when reaching overhead or behind your back — you might be experiencing frozen shoulder, a common but often misunderstood condition.

Also known as adhesive capsulitis, frozen shoulder can significantly limit your daily activities, from dressing to driving. At BOSH-Physiotherapy, we help patients regain painfree movement through expert physiotherapy and home-based
guidance.

In this article, learn about the causes, symptoms, and simple home remedies that can help manage frozen shoulder effectively.

What is Frozen Shoulder?

Frozen shoulder is a condition in which the shoulder joint becomes stiff and painful, often without any obvious injury. The capsule surrounding the shoulder joint thickens and tightens, restricting movement.

Common Causes of Frozen Shoulder

1. Prolonged Immobilization – After fractures, surgeries, or injury

2. Diabetes, Especially type 2 diabetes increases risk

3. Thyroid Disorders

4. Age & Gender – Most common in people aged 40–60; women are more affected

5. Rotator Cuff Injuries or inflammation

Symptoms to Watch Out For

Frozen shoulder typically progresses through three stages:

1. Freezing Stag

Gradual onset of shoulder pain
Increasing stiffness
Pain worsens at night

2. Frozen Stage

Pain may reduce slightly
Severe stiffness limits range of motion
Difficulty performing everyday tasks (e.g., combing hair)

3. Thawing Stage

Gradual improvement in movement
Recovery may take several months

Home Remedies for Frozen Shoulder
While professional physiotherapy is essential for full recovery, these home care tips can ease discomfort:

1. Heat Therapy

Apply a hot water bag or heating pad for 15–20 minutes before exercising to relax muscles and improve flexibility.

2. Gentle Stretching

Perform light stretches like:

Pendulum Swings – Let your arm hang and gently swing it in circles.
Towel Stretch – Hold a towel behind your back and stretch gently.
Finger Walk – Walk your fingers up the wall to improve shoulder reach.

Tip: Stretch within a pain-free range — don’t force movements.

3. Avoid Total Rest

Complete immobilization worsens stiffness. Keep the shoulder gently active unless advised otherwise by your physiotherapist.|

4. Anti-inflammatory Measures

Over-the-counter pain relievers may help reduce pain but should only be taken under medical advice.

When to See a Physiotherapist?

If you’re struggling with:

Shoulder stiffness for more than 2–3 weeks
Pain that interferes with sleep
Difficulty performing daily tasks

It’s time to see a physiotherapist.

BOSh-Physio's Approach to Frozen Shoulder Recovery

At BOSh-Physio, we offer:

Pain relief modalities (TENS, ultrasound therapy)
Manual therapy to loosen tight joints
Targeted mobility exercises
Strengthening programs to prevent recurrence

With a customized treatment plan, our expert physiotherapists can help you regain full

shoulder function — safely and naturally.

Visit BOSH-Physiotherapy in Kammanahalli, Bangalore

Book your consultation today

www.bosh-physiotherapy.com/contact-us

Don’t wait for the pain to worsen. Let us help you regain control — one stretch at a time.

Read More-
Frozen Shoulder: Causes, Symptoms, and Home Remedies
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