FROZEN SHOULDER: STIFF SHOULDER WITH KINEO SUPPORT
WHAT IS A FROZEN SHOULDER?
Frozen shoulder, also called stiff shoulder or adhesive capsulitis, is an inflammatory condition of the shoulder joint capsule. Through inflammation and deposits of collagen, the joint capsule thickens and loses its elasticity, and the mobility of the shoulder decreases: the shoulder “freezes”.
The condition is often very painful, but in many cases it can be eased with targeted therapy and self-help. At KINEO, we rely on an evidence-based approach that reduces pain, promotes mobility and stabilises the shoulder for the long term.
CAUSES OF A STIFF SHOULDER
The primary frozen shoulder often arises without a clear cause. Metabolic disturbances in the area of the shoulder capsule and muscles are suspected.
The secondary form occurs after injuries, operations or shoulder osteoarthritis. Longer immobilisation of the arm after procedures can also limit mobility and lead to a stiff shoulder.
SYMPTOMS AND PHASES
The symptoms usually develop slowly and run through three phases:
- Inflammatory phase:
- Severe pain, especially at night
- Inflammation of the joint lining
- Adhesive phase (“freezing phase”):
- Range of motion of the shoulder decreases sharply
- Raising the arm and external rotation are severely limited
- Pain usually eases somewhat
- Recovery phase (“thawing phase”):
- Slow return of mobility
- The shoulder gradually becomes free of symptoms
Duration: Complete healing can take 12–36 months.
SELF-HELP FOR FROZEN SHOULDER
1. Pain reduction in the inflammatory phase
- Cold therapy: Cool packs on the shoulder ease inflammation and reduce pain signals.
- Taking it easy: Avoid jerky movements, but move the shoulder gently to prevent stiffening.
2. Anti-inflammatory nutrition
- Natural helpers: ginger, turmeric, apple cider vinegar, chilli, nettle
- These foods promote blood flow, ease inflammation and support the metabolism.
3. Movement to maintain shoulder function
Even with severe stiffness, gentle mobilisation helps to supply cartilage tissue with nutrients and to keep the shoulder mobile.
Light stretching exercises:
- Upward stretch:
- Place your arm on a chest-high surface, slowly bend your knees until the armpit stretches.
- Slowly straighten up again.
- Backward stretch:
- Place your arm sideways at 90° against a door frame, turn your upper body away from the affected shoulder.
- Respect your pain limit, increase slowly.
Note: The exercises should be done several times a day, 10–20 repetitions, adjusted to your pain.
KINEO THERAPY FOR FROZEN SHOULDER
With increasing symptoms or severe restriction of movement, KINEO offers a comprehensive therapy approach:
Therapy by phases
- Phase 1: pain relief and avoiding overload
- Phase 2: keeping mobility despite stiffness (“freezing phase”)
- Phase 3: rebuilding strength, mobility and function
Manual therapy and stretching techniques
- Mobilisation of the shoulder joints: releases blockages, improves mobility
- Stretching and fascia techniques: reduce adhesions and tension
- Low-pain positions: strategies for everyday life and sleep
Complementary measures
- Shockwave therapy: supports healing of tissue and tendons
- Home exercise programme: functional exercises for strength, mobility and metabolic stimulation
Medical training therapy (MTT)
- After the first two phases have been overcome, the shoulder can be loaded in a targeted way again
- Strength training with weights or machines under professional guidance
PREVENTION AND EVERYDAY STRATEGIES
- Gentle movement routine: Do light mobilisation exercises in the second phase as well
- Ergonomics: Adapt your workplace optimally to shoulder movement
- Gradual loading: After injuries, return slowly to full activity
- Continuous support: Regular adjustment of exercises and therapy at KINEO
CONCLUSION
Frozen shoulder can severely limit everyday life, but it is very treatable with targeted therapy, self-help and KINEO support. An individually tailored programme reduces pain, promotes mobility and supports long-term shoulder health.
Act early: The sooner therapy begins, the faster the shoulder can be mobilised and the risk of chronic restrictions reduced.
