Does physiotherapy treat frozen shoulder?

Frozen shoulder involves pain and stiffness around the shoulder joint, often making reaching overhead, dressing, or sleeping on that side difficult. A physiotherapist can identify the movements you can perform safely and match exercises to the current painful or stiff phase. Care may include gentle range-of-motion work, posture and shoulder-blade exercises, and advice about heat, rest, and daily tasks. Forceful stretching can aggravate an irritable shoulder.

Use the prescribed exercises regularly and keep them within a tolerable range. Pendulum movements, assisted elevation with a stick or table, and gradual rotation work may be included when suitable. Avoid repeatedly testing the painful end range or carrying loads that provoke symptoms. Ask about modifying dressing, reaching, and sleeping positions while movement returns. Learn more about [Frozen Shoulder](/conditions/frozen-shoulder/) and [Physiotherapy](/treatments/physiotherapy-and-rehabilitation/physiotherapy/).

Arrange an assessment when shoulder pain or stiffness persists, disrupts sleep, or limits dressing and work. Seek urgent care after a major injury, or for a shoulder that is visibly deformed, suddenly weak, numb, cold, or accompanied by chest pressure or breathlessness. Return for review if exercises consistently worsen pain.

Ask which phase your shoulder may be in, what level of stretching is appropriate, and whether pain relief could make movement easier. Ask how progress will be checked and when another treatment review is needed.