Frozen Shoulder Relief
Improving Mobility
and Reducing Stiffness
rozen shoulder, also known as adhesive capsulitis, is a condition that causes progressive pain and stiffness in the shoulder joint, leading to a significant loss of mobility. While it may also be referred to as adherent bursitis, pericapsulitis, or periarthritis, the underlying issue remains the same: restricted joint movement that requires targeted care and rehabilitation.
At Montgomery County Chiropractic, we focus on gentle manipulation and neuromusculoskeletal rehabilitation to help restore motion and improve comfort.
What Is Frozen Shoulder?
Frozen shoulder affects approximately two to three percent of the population and is most commonly diagnosed in adults between the ages of 40 and 70, with women affected more frequently than men. The condition often begins with shoulder pain, followed by increasing stiffness and limited range of motion.
The shoulder is a ball-and-socket joint supported by muscles, ligaments, and tendons that allow for a wide range of movement. When inflammation develops within the joint capsule, thickened tissue called adhesions can form. These adhesions reduce lubrication within the joint and restrict movement, causing the shoulder to gradually “freeze.”
Frozen shoulder typically develops slowly and may take months or even years to fully present.
Common Causes of Frozen Shoulder
Frozen shoulder can occur for a variety of reasons, including:
- Shoulder injury or overuse
- Prolonged immobilization, such as wearing a sling
- Upper torso or shoulder surgery
- Cardiovascular events or recovery from illness
- Autoimmune or inflammatory responses
When shoulder pain is not addressed early, inflammation can progress, leading to adhesion formation and worsening stiffness.
Frozen Shoulder and Systemic Conditions
Certain systemic conditions can increase the risk of developing frozen shoulder. These include:
- Diabetes
- Thyroid disorders (hyperthyroidism or hypothyroidism)
- Cardiovascular disease
- Parkinson’s disease
- Tuberculosis
In these cases, early diagnosis and conservative care are especially important, as more aggressive treatments may not be appropriate. Chiropractic care can play a supportive role in managing pain and preserving mobility.
Frozen Shoulder After Surgery
Patients recovering from procedures such as rotator cuff repair, labral surgery, mastectomy, or cardiovascular surgery are more susceptible to frozen shoulder due to limited use of the arm during recovery. When movement is restricted for extended periods, the shoulder joint can stiffen rapidly.
Once healing allows, chiropractic care combined with guided rehabilitation can help restore motion and reduce discomfort safely.
Chiropractic Treatment for Frozen Shoulder
Chiropractic care for frozen shoulder focuses on improving joint mobility, reducing inflammation, and preventing muscle atrophy. Your care plan may include:
- Gentle joint manipulation
- Neuromusculoskeletal rehabilitation
- In-office stretching and mobility work
- Guided home exercises to support recovery
- Supportive care to manage inflammation
Progress depends on consistency. Active participation in both in-office care and at-home exercises is essential for improving range of motion and achieving lasting results.
Start Your Recovery Today
Frozen shoulder can be frustrating, but with the right care, mobility can be restored. Our experienced team is here to guide you through a structured, supportive recovery process designed to help you return to daily activities with greater ease.


