Frozen shoulder, or adhesive capsulitis, is a painful and often debilitating condition that can severely limit your ability to perform everyday activities. At Go Run Go Physio, we offer targeted physiotherapy treatment for frozen shoulder, designed to relieve pain, restore mobility, and help you regain function. Whether you’ve searched for shoulder physio near me or are seeking trusted physiotherapy services in Melbourne, our experienced team is here to guide your recovery.
What Is Frozen Shoulder?
Frozen shoulder is a condition where the shoulder joint becomes stiff and painful due to inflammation and thickening of the capsule that surrounds the joint. It typically develops in stages:
- Freezing Stage: Pain worsens gradually, and movement becomes increasingly restricted.
- Frozen Stage: Pain may reduce, but stiffness remains, making movement difficult.
- Thawing Stage: Shoulder mobility begins to improve slowly over time.
Common causes include:
This condition is more common in adults aged 40–60 and affects women slightly more than men.
Why Choose Physiotherapy Treatment for Frozen Shoulder?
Physiotherapy is widely recommended as the first line of treatment for frozen shoulder because it addresses both pain and restricted movement. A personalised physiotherapy treatment plan not only helps manage symptoms but also prevents long-term complications such as muscle weakness or chronic stiffness.
Benefits of physiotherapy include:
- Improved shoulder mobility
- Reduced inflammation and pain
- Gradual return to daily activities
- Avoidance of invasive procedures like surgery
The earlier physiotherapy is started, the better the outcomes.
Physiotherapy Techniques We Use at Go Run Go Physio
At Go Run Go Physio, our treatment for frozen shoulder involves a mix of hands-on therapies, guided exercises, and education. Each program is tailored based on the stage and severity of your condition.
Manual Therapy
Our physiotherapists use joint mobilisation and soft tissue techniques to reduce stiffness and improve shoulder joint mobility.
Targeted Exercise Programmes
We guide patients through specific stretching and strengthening exercises. These are designed to:
- Improve range of motion
- Reduce joint tension
- Strengthen supporting muscles
Electrotherapy & Ultrasound
For patients in acute pain, modalities like ultrasound therapy can help reduce inflammation and promote healing in soft tissues.
Postural Correction & Ergonomics
Many shoulder issues are aggravated by poor posture. We offer advice on workplace ergonomics and sleeping positions to support recovery.
What to Expect from Your Recovery Journey
Frozen shoulder can take several months to fully resolve, but consistent physiotherapy greatly speeds up recovery.
Typical Recovery Timeline:
- 0–3 months: Focus on pain relief and basic mobility
- 3–6 months: Increased range of motion and functional strengthening
- 6–12 months: Return to full function and maintenance
Patients are typically seen 1–2 times per week initially, then less frequently as mobility improves. Home exercise compliance is critical to success.
How to Know If You Need Shoulder Physio
If you’re experiencing any of the following symptoms, it may be time to book a consultation:
- Persistent shoulder pain, especially at night
- Difficulty raising your arm or rotating it outward
- Gradual loss of movement over weeks or months
- History of recent shoulder injury or surgery
Our clinicians at Go Run Go Physio will conduct a full assessment and develop a tailored plan for your needs.
Why Choose Go Run Go Physio?
We’re a leading provider of physiotherapy services in Australia, trusted by locals searching for shoulder physio near me. Here’s what sets us apart:
- Highly qualified physiotherapists
- Evidence-based treatment plans
- Modern equipment and facilities
- Focused patient education and home care support
We’re committed to helping you regain a pain-free and functional shoulder.
Tips for Managing Frozen Shoulder at Home
While in-clinic physiotherapy is essential, daily habits play a key role in recovery.
- Use a heat pack before stretching to relax the joint
- Maintain consistent home exercises as prescribed
- Avoid movements that strain the shoulder
- Sleep on your unaffected side with a pillow for support
These small habits can complement your physiotherapy sessions and accelerate healing.
FAQs
Q1. What is the fastest way to cure frozen shoulder?
Answer: There’s no instant cure, but consistent physiotherapy combined with home exercises is the most effective non-surgical approach.
Q2. How many sessions of physiotherapy do I need?
Answer: It depends on the stage of your condition, but most people require 6–12 sessions over several months.
Q3. Can frozen shoulder come back after treatment?
Answer: Recurrence is rare if the shoulder is properly rehabilitated, but maintaining mobility and strength is important to prevent future issues.
Q4. Is frozen shoulder the same as rotator cuff injury?
Answer: No, although symptoms can overlap. A rotator cuff injury affects the muscles and tendons, while frozen shoulder involves joint capsule inflammation.
Q5. Do I need a referral to see a physiotherapist?
Answer: No referral is necessary. You can book an appointment directly with Go Run Go Physio.