What to expect from physiotherapy for frozen shoulder

The physiotherapist may ask when pain began, how sleep and dressing are affected, and which movements are restricted. They can compare active and assisted shoulder movement, examine the neck and nearby joints, and check strength within a comfortable range. A programme may use gentle mobility drills, supported elevation, rotation work, and later strengthening. The amount of stretching should reflect irritability: a highly painful shoulder needs a different approach from one that is mainly stiff.

Practise at the times and frequency agreed with your therapist, using slow movements and relaxed breathing. Avoid forcing the arm through sharp pain or repeatedly testing the end range. Support the arm for rest if that is more comfortable, and discuss sleep positions or work adaptations. Bring feedback about pain later in the day, sleep, and dressing or reaching tasks; these details help the clinician adjust the dose as the shoulder changes.

Seek prompt care for a shoulder that becomes hot, red, or suddenly very swollen, fever with severe joint pain, or a new deformity after injury. Urgent assessment is needed for sudden arm weakness, new loss of feeling, chest pressure, or breathlessness. Contact your clinician if pain escalates sharply, night symptoms change substantially, or the programme is no longer tolerable.

Ask which movements are safe during the current stage, how much discomfort is acceptable, and when strengthening should begin. Ask whether pain relief or another treatment could make movement practice easier.