Common Symptoms of Frozen Shoulder Syndrome

Frozen shoulder is characterized by a variety of symptoms affecting mobility and use including:

• Pain and stiffness in the shoulder
• Inability to lift the arm over the head
• Shoulder is sensitive to touch
• Persistent pain and immobility in the shoulder
  

Frozen shoulder syndrome (FSS) is usually characterized by a three-step “freezing” process.

1. Freezing – progressive stiffness and loss of motion with increasing pain over a period of two to nine months
2. Frozen – Considerable restriction to the range of movement and stiffness lasting four to 12 months
3. Thawing – Gradual decrease of pain and improvement in the range of motion over a period of a few years
   

FSS largely affects adults ages 40 to 60 years and can follow trauma or be part of a systemic condition such as Parkinson’s disease, cardiovascular disease, thyroid disease or stroke. However, some studies also believe that FSS may find its root in neuromechanical issues based in the cervical spine, head, occipitoatlantal joints and cranial nerve.

At The Rejuvenation Center, we have years of experience working with FSS. We know how difficult it can be to deal with, and that some clients are afraid to even get a massage because of the pain. We will take into consideration your level of pain, specific situation and goals to create a treatment protocol designed specially for you.

We also believe in whole-person treatment, and not just treating symptoms. Our expert team will work with you to develop new habits and possibly recommend ongoing maintenance treatment so that you can avoid FSS in the future.

How Does Chiropractic Help With Frozen Shoulder?

Though FSS is one of the least understood shoulder conditions, studies have shown that regular chiropractic and massage therapy sessions can help reduce symptoms for lasting relief. A recent study also found that chiropractic treatments can help reduce pain and increase range of motion in the shoulder. We recommend talking with Doctor Brad Miller, an experienced chiropractor and owner of The Rejuvenation Center. After a brief consultation, he will develop a treatment plan that is personalized to you for pain-free results.

How Does Massage Therapy Help With Frozen Shoulder?

Many therapies can be applied to FSS. Regular massage that targets multiple issues and loosens up the area can increase blood flow and help reduce inflammation. Massage can also assist with breaking down scar tissue enhancing range of motion. Relief will usually come after a series of treatments rather than just one visit. Our licensed massage therapist Brianna Francom is a Master Bodyworker with an extensive knowledge of human physiology. Being aware of the pain that is inherent to FSS, she will work carefully and considerately to address the mobility of the area as well as the underlying causes.

Because each case is different, your treatment protocol may include some, all, or a combination of the following treatments.

Swedish massage

A light, flowing pressure massage that focuses on muscles and connective tissues. Slow, sweeping strokes and kneading work relieves pain, improves circulation and provides muscle relief to increase the mobility of the joint.

Trigger point therapy

Trigger points are tiny nodules that form within muscle tissue and can refer pain to many different areas of the body. Rather than working on the areas where pain is felt, trigger point therapy seeks to identify and release the trigger point itself thereby eliminating all referred pain. Treatment involves consultation, frequent feedback, and a series of pressure and release cycles.

Heat therapy

Before, during, and after a massage, heat is applied to tight areas. This relaxes muscles allowing a deeper and more effective massage. Therapeutic heat can also relieve tension and pain.

Deep-tissue massage

A focused massage that relieves chronic muscle tension. This massage works deep into the muscles and connective tissue. This may be avoided until treatment progresses, as it can be painful for FSS sufferers.