Introduction
Frozen shoulder, also known as adhesive capsulitis, is a painful condition that causes stiffness and severely limits movement in the shoulder joint. It can last months, sometimes years, if left untreated.
At County Physio in Haddington, East Lothian, we specialise in treating frozen shoulder with effective physiotherapy techniques designed to reduce pain, restore mobility, and speed up recovery.
What is Frozen Shoulder?
Frozen shoulder develops when the tissues around the shoulder joint become inflamed and thickened, leading to restricted movement. Common symptoms include:
- Gradual onset of stiffness
- Difficulty lifting your arm or reaching overhead
- Pain at night, making it hard to sleep
- Progressive loss of mobility
The condition often progresses through three stages: freezing, frozen, and thawing.
How Physiotherapy Helps Frozen Shoulder
Physiotherapy is one of the most effective treatments for frozen shoulder. At County Physio, we use a combination of:
- Manual therapy – gentle mobilisation to restore movement in the joint
- Stretching and mobility exercises – to gradually increase range of motion
- Acupuncture or dry needling – to relieve pain and reduce muscle tension
- Electrotherapy and taping – to support healing and reduce inflammation
- Home exercise programme – to continue progress between sessions
👉 Learn more about our Shoulder Pain Physiotherapy in Haddington.
Benefits of Physiotherapy for Frozen Shoulder
- Reduces pain and stiffness
- Speeds up recovery compared to “waiting it out”
- Improves day-to-day function (dressing, lifting, reaching)
- Restores confidence and independence
- Prevents long-term complications
How Long Does Recovery Take?
Without treatment, frozen shoulder can last 12–24 months or longer. With physiotherapy, many patients see improvement within weeks and continue to regain motion over several months. Early treatment helps shorten recovery time.
When to See a Physiotherapist
Book an appointment if you have:
- Ongoing shoulder stiffness
- Pain that disturbs sleep
- Difficulty with everyday activities like dressing or driving
- Gradually worsening mobility
Conclusion
Frozen shoulder can be frustrating and debilitating, but with the right physiotherapy treatment, recovery is possible.
At County Physio in Haddington, East Lothian, our team provides personalised frozen shoulder treatment to help you move more freely and live pain-free.
📞 Call today or book online to start your recovery journey.
