Does hydrotherapy treat frozen shoulder?

Warm water may relax guarding around the shoulder, while buoyancy reduces the weight your arm has to move. In that setting, a physiotherapist can guide gentle reaching, rotation and supported lifting within a comfortable range. The purpose is to maintain or gradually improve movement and help you practise without forcing the joint. Frozen shoulder, also called adhesive capsulitis, can change over time, and the right exercise intensity depends on whether pain or stiffness is the main limitation.

Have the shoulder assessed before starting so the programme matches your movement and pain. Follow the therapist's instructions on posture, repetitions and rest. Avoid sudden forceful stretching or treating increased pain as a sign that the exercise is working. Your plan might also include land exercises, pain relief or another treatment recommended after examination. Keep notes on night pain, dressing, reaching and other tasks so progress can be discussed clearly.

Seek review if pain is rapidly worsening, your arm becomes newly weak or numb, or the shoulder is red, hot and associated with fever. Urgent care is appropriate for chest pressure, severe breathing difficulty or an injury that leaves the arm visibly deformed.

Is my shoulder ready for pool exercise? Which movements should stay within a comfortable range? What other options could help if stiffness is not improving?