If you've ever experienced a frozen shoulder, you know how debilitating it can be.  

  

Not only is it painful, but it can also significantly limit your range of motion, making everyday tasks extremely difficult. But don't despair, because there are proven ways to cure a frozen shoulder quickly.  

  

Maurice at Dynamic Fitness & Rehabilitation can help you explore strategies to get you back to enjoying a pain-free and unrestricted life.  

  

Understanding Frozen Shoulder: Causes and Symptoms 

 

Although the causes of a frozen shoulder are not fully understood, some risk factors have been identified.  

 

  • Age 

  • Gender (more common in women) 

  • Underlying health conditions  

 

Often, the condition arises without known cause, which is referred to as idiopathic frozen shoulder.  

The onset of frozen shoulder is usually gradual, starting with mild discomfort that progresses to significant pain and stiffness over time.  

 

Common symptoms include shoulder pain, stiffness, and limited range of motion, which may interfere with daily activities such as dressing or sleeping on the affected side. Some people also experience dull or aching pain in the outer shoulder area and upper arm. 

 

The condition generally progresses through three phases:  

 

#1. The Freezing Stage: Characterized by increasing shoulder pain and decreasing range of motion. This can last from 6 weeks to 9 months. 

 

#2. The Frozen Stage: Pain may decrease but stiffness remains and using the shoulder becomes increasingly difficult. This stage can last from 4 to 6 months. 

 

#3. The Thawing Stage: Gradual improvement in range of motion occurs, which can take from 6 months to 2 years. 

 

Note that these stages may vary among individuals and some people may not go through every stage.  

 

Tips for Managing Pain During Recovery 

 

It's paramount to ensure that you manage your pain effectively during the recovery process, not only to aid healing but also to bolster your mental well-being.  

 

Some tried-and-true methods to help manage pain during your recuperation period include: 

 

  • Physical Therapy: Undergoing structured physical therapy sessions can help improve mobility, ease pain, and speed up recovery. Remember to always consult with a professional physical therapist who can demonstrate the correct techniques and ensure that you're not putting your shoulder under undue stress. 

 

  • Muscle Activation Technique (MAT): This non-invasive approach focuses on identifying and addressing muscle imbalances and weaknesses to restore proper function and mobility to the affected area. By activating underactive muscles and releasing overactive ones, MAT aims to enhance neuromuscular efficiency and promote optimal joint movement. 

 

  • Over-the-Counter Pain Relievers: Non-prescription pain relievers such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help reduce pain and inflammation. However, they should be used judiciously and only as directed by a healthcare provider. 

 

  • Heat and Cold Therapy: Applying heat to the affected area can soothe stiff joints and muscles, whereas cold therapy (ice packs) can alleviate swelling and numb pain. Alternating between the two can be particularly effective. 

 

  • Gentle Exercises: Gentle exercises and stretching can help maintain as much mobility as possible in your shoulder. Only perform exercises recommended by your physiotherapist or doctor and avoid any that cause severe pain. 

 

  • Acupuncture: This has been found not only to provide immediate relief from discomfort but also encourages healing by promoting blood circulation in the affected area. 

  

Despite these helpful methods, some individuals may still experience persistent, severe pain which may indicate that it is time to see a doctor.  

 

Dynamic Fitness Tip: Remember, the road to recovery from a frozen shoulder can be slow and requires patience. Diligence with your pain management strategies, commitment to your therapy exercises, and regular communication with your healthcare provider will go a long way in aiding a faster and smoother recovery process. 

 

Read more>> The Basics of Biomechanics & Body Movement  

 

Say Goodbye to Your Frozen Shoulder 

  

Living with a frozen shoulder can be incredibly frustrating and limiting.  

 

However, by seeking proper treatment and following a comprehensive rehabilitation plan, you can regain your range of motion and improve your quality of life. Don't let a frozen shoulder continue to hold you back from your favorite activities or daily tasks. 

  

Contact MAT Specialist, Maurice, at Dynamic Fitness today to find the right treatment for you and get back to living pain-free. 

   

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