Sports Massage for Frozen shoulder

Frozen shoulder, also known as adhesive capsulitis, is a condition that causes stiffness, pain, and limited range of motion in the shoulder joint. It occurs when the capsule surrounding the shoulder joint thickens and tightens, causing scar tissue to form. This leads to a decrease in the amount of synovial fluid that lubricates the joint, further limiting movement.

Frozen shoulder can be caused by a variety of factors, including injury or surgery to the shoulder, diabetes, thyroid disorders, and prolonged immobilization. The condition typically progresses through three stages: a painful stage, a frozen stage characterized by limited movement, and a thawing stage during which the joint gradually regains mobility.

Treatment for frozen shoulder usually involves a combination of physical therapy, anti-inflammatory medications, and corticosteroid injections to reduce pain and inflammation. In severe cases, arthroscopic surgery may be necessary to release the tight capsule around the shoulder joint.

Main Symptoms of a Frozen Shoulder

The main symptoms of a frozen shoulder include:

• Pain: The pain associated with frozen shoulder is usually dull or aching, and may be felt deep within the shoulder. It is often worse at night and can be especially severe during the early stages of the condition.
• Stiffness: Frozen shoulder causes stiffness in the shoulder joint that makes it difficult to move the arm. The stiffness may also limit the ability to perform everyday activities such as dressing, reaching for objects, and lifting.
• Limited Range of Motion: As the condition progresses, the range of motion in the shoulder joint becomes increasingly limited. This can make it difficult to perform even simple tasks such as brushing your hair or putting on a seatbelt.
• Gradual Onset: Frozen shoulder typically develops gradually over a period of several months to a year, and it may be difficult to pinpoint exactly when the symptoms began.
• Three Stages: As mentioned earlier, the condition typically progresses through three stages: a painful stage, a frozen stage characterized by limited movement, and a thawing stage during which the joint gradually regains mobility.

It's important to note that these symptoms may also be indicative of other conditions, so it's always best to consult with a healthcare provider for a proper diagnosis.

Can a Sports Massage Help a Frozen Shoulder?

Massage can be used as a treatment for frozen shoulder, particularly during the painful and frozen stages of the condition. Massage can help to reduce pain and inflammation, improve blood flow to the affected area, and increase the range of motion in the shoulder joint.

However, it's important to note that massage should be performed by a trained professional who is familiar with the specific techniques used to treat frozen shoulder. A massage therapist who is not properly trained in treating frozen shoulder may inadvertently worsen the condition by applying too much pressure or using the wrong techniques.

In addition to massage, other treatments for frozen shoulder may include physical therapy, anti-inflammatory medications, corticosteroid injections, and in severe cases, surgery. A healthcare provider can recommend the best treatment options based on the severity of the condition and the patient's individual needs.

What Techniques do Massage Therapists use in Treating a Frozen Shoulder?

When treating a frozen shoulder, massage therapists may use a variety of techniques to help reduce pain, inflammation, and stiffness in the affected area. Some common techniques used by massage therapists include:

• Swedish Massage: This type of massage involves long, flowing strokes, kneading, and circular movements to help improve circulation and reduce tension in the muscles.
• Deep Tissue Massage: This type of massage focuses on deeper layers of muscle tissue and may involve the use of deep pressure or friction to help break up adhesions and scar tissue.
• Trigger Point Therapy: This technique involves applying pressure to specific points in the muscles to help relieve pain and tension.
• Myofascial Release: This technique involves stretching and massaging the fascia, or connective tissue, surrounding the muscles to help reduce tension and improve range of motion.
• Passive Range of Motion Exercises: Massage therapists may also use passive range of motion exercises to gently move the shoulder joint through its full range of motion, which can help improve flexibility and reduce stiffness.

It's important to note that the techniques used by massage therapists may vary depending on the severity and stage of the frozen shoulder, as well as the individual needs of the patient. It's always best to consult with a qualified massage therapist 

Frozen Shoulder And Sport

Athletes can experience frozen shoulder, although it is more commonly seen in individuals over the age of 40. Athletes who engage in sports that involve repetitive overhead motions, such as swimming, tennis, or baseball, may be at a higher risk of developing frozen shoulder.

For example, baseball pitchers are particularly susceptible to frozen shoulder due to the repetitive and high-impact nature of throwing. Swimmers may also be at risk due to the repetitive overhead movements involved in the sport.

In addition to athletes, frozen shoulder can also occur in individuals who have experienced a shoulder injury, have undergone shoulder surgery, or have certain medical conditions such as diabetes or thyroid disorders.

Regardless of the cause, it's important for anyone experiencing shoulder pain, stiffness, or limited range of motion to seek medical attention to determine the underlying cause and develop an appropriate treatment plan. You can find specialists in sports massage, sports medicine and sports science on our directory of sport performance specialists who can help you with a frozen shoulder.