Treating Frozen Shoulder: Exercises
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| The pendulum exercise can help you get ready for your stretches. |
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Doing special exercises is the first way to treat frozen sholder. You may see a physical therapist who can help you learn to do them. If these exercises don’t help, you may need further medical treatment.
Shoulder Stretches
Doing stretches is often the best way to treat frozen shoulder. Stretching each day can help lessen the pain and restore shoulder flexibility. But it often takes time before you notice results. Try to be patient.
To warm up, do the “pendulum.” While standing, let the hand on your frozen side dangle freely as you hold the back of a chair with your other hand. Slowly make circles and side-to-side motions with the frozen arm.
Physical Therapy
Your doctor may refer you to physical therapy. This hands-on care helps you learn how to do stretching exercises at home. A physical therapist may also work on restoring your shoulder flexibility. To do this, he or she may gently stretch and move your frozen shoulder.
Tips for Shoulder Stretches
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Anti-inflammatory medicines can help relieve pain. This may help you do your stretches. Your doctor can tell you more.
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Mild and moist heat can help loosen your shoulder. Try taking a warm shower or bath just before you stretch.
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A cold or ice pack can limit pain and swelling. Try icing your shoulder for a few minutes after you do your stretches.
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Publication Source:
American Family Physician, 67(6), Information from your family doctor. Adhesive capsulitis, Mar 15, 2003, pp 1323-4
Publication Source:
American Family Physician, 67(6), Information from your family doctor. Shoulder pain, Mar 15, 2003, pp 1319-20
Publication Source:
Browning DG, Primary Care: Clinics in Office Practice, 31(4), Rotator cuff injuries and treatment, Dec 1, 2004, pp 807-29
Online Medical Reviewer:
Bhattacharyya, Tim MD
Date Last Reviewed:
8/4/2004
Date Last Modified:
7/9/2002