Frozen shoulder is a complaint that we come across frequently in our clinical practice. We normally see patients when the pain associated with the condition has become constant and debilitating.
It is a complex condition the cause of which is still not completely determined. Although there are a number of risk factors which see the condition affect a certain demographic of people.
This article presents a concise summary of frozen shoulder’s clinical presentation and risk factors. It also explains the 3 established phases of the condition - freezing, frozen and thawing.
"Frozen shoulder, also known as adhesive capsulitis, is when a person experiences pain and stiffness in their shoulder."
"Over time, the affected shoulder may slowly become more restricted in its range of motion (ROM). After this period of worsening symptoms, it will slowly start to get better – a process that can take anywhere between one to three years."
Our acupuncturists are able to assist with pain relief and exercise therapy to promote the body’s resolution of the condition.
The following study presents the possible outcomes of frequent acupuncture treatment with warming the shoulder region and prescribed exercise therapy.
"The results of this study indicate that acupuncture is an effective treatment for frozen shoulders with the potential to reduce pain and improve shoulder function. The data indicates that the efficacy of acupuncture is enhanced by the addition of intensive moxibustion."
by Andrew White: Acupuncturist & Chinese Medicine Practitioner.