Frozen Shoulder in Northampton & Corby

Your Local Experts in Shoulder Pain

Are you struggling with Shoulder PAIN and looking for effective, professional treatment? At Team Rehab UK Ltd, our dedicated clinics in Brixworth and Corby offer premium physiotherapy services to help you regain your mobility and live pain-free. With a minimum of 24 years of experience each, our highly skilled chartered physiotherapists are committed to providing personalised care tailored to your specific needs.

Understanding Frozen Shoulder

Introduction to Frozen Shoulder

Frozen shoulder, also known as adhesive capsulitis, is a painful and debilitating condition characterised by stiffness and limited range of motion in the shoulder joint. This condition develops gradually over time and can significantly impact daily activities, making even simple tasks difficult. Frozen shoulder typically progresses through three stages and can take between one to three years to fully resolve. The condition involves the thickening and tightening of the connective tissue capsule surrounding the shoulder joint, which restricts movement and causes pain.

Causes of Frozen Shoulder

The shoulder joint is a complex structure made up of bones, tendons, and ligaments, all encased in a thick capsule of connective tissue. Frozen shoulder occurs when this capsule becomes thickened and tight, restricting movement and causing pain. While the exact cause of frozen shoulder is not fully understood, several factors are known to increase the risk of developing this condition:

Diabetes:
- Individuals with diabetes are at a higher risk of developing frozen shoulder. The exact mechanism is unclear, but it is believed that high blood sugar levels may contribute to changes in connective tissue.
Immobilisation:
- Prolonged periods of inactivity following an arm fracture, shoulder surgery, or other injuries can lead to the development of frozen shoulder. Immobilisation can cause the shoulder capsule to tighten and thicken, restricting movement.
Age and Gender:
- Frozen shoulder is more common in women and individuals over the age of 40. Hormonal changes and age-related degenerative changes in the shoulder joint may contribute to this increased risk.
Other Medical Conditions:
- Certain medical conditions, such as thyroid disorders, cardiovascular disease, and Parkinson's disease, can increase the risk of developing frozen shoulder.

Signs and Symptoms of Frozen Shoulder

Frozen shoulder progresses through three distinct stages, each lasting several months:

Freezing Stage: Symptoms: During this initial phase, pain occurs with any shoulder movement, and the range of motion becomes increasingly limited. Pain is often worse at night, disrupting sleep and making it difficult to find a comfortable position.

Frozen Stage: Symptoms: In this stage, the pain may begin to subside, but the shoulder becomes stiffer, and movement is significantly restricted. The shoulder's ability to function properly is greatly impaired, and tasks such as reaching overhead or behind the back become very difficult.

Thawing Stage: Symptoms: The final stage involves a gradual improvement in shoulder movement. As the stiffness lessens, the range of motion begins to return, and the shoulder slowly regains functionality. This stage can last several months and requires consistent therapy and exercise.

Diagnosis of Frozen Shoulder

Frozen shoulder is diagnosed through a comprehensive evaluation that includes a detailed medical history and a thorough physical examination. Your physiotherapist in Northampton will assess your shoulder movements and pain levels using various techniques:

Physical Examination:
- Active Range of Motion: You will be asked to perform specific arm movements to assess how far you can move your shoulder on your own.
- Passive Range of Motion: The physiotherapist will move your arm in different directions to evaluate the movement that occurs without your muscle involvement.

Anaesthetic Injection:
- In some cases, an anaesthetic may be injected to numb the shoulder while evaluating the range of motion. This helps to determine whether the stiffness is due to muscle or joint restrictions.

Imaging Studies:
- X-rays: To rule out other potential issues such as arthritis or bone spurs.
- MRI Scans: To provide detailed images of the soft tissues in the shoulder, helping to identify any rotator cuff tears or other soft tissue abnormalities.

Ensuring Optimal Treatment Outcomes

At Team Rehab UK, we are Northampton based physiotherapists we emphasise that treatments which are not effective should not continue beyond accepted clinical timescales without further in-depth investigations. We prefer these additional assessments to be conducted by consultant specialists outside our company’s financial interests. This approach ensures we receive an unbiased second opinion, guaranteeing that the care you receive is the most clinically appropriate.

Treatment for Frozen Shoulder

Treatment for frozen shoulder aims to relieve pain and restore mobility. A combination of approaches is often used, including:

Pain-Relieving Medications:
- Over-the-Counter Pain Relievers: Medications such as ibuprofen or paracetamol can help manage pain and reduce inflammation.
- Prescription Pain Relievers: For more severe pain, stronger medications may be prescribed by your consultant.

Heat and Ice Application:
- Heat Packs: Applying heat can help relax the muscles and improve blood flow to the affected area.
- Ice Packs: Alternating with ice packs can reduce inflammation and numb the pain.

Physiotherapy:
- Stretching Exercises: A tailored exercise regimen designed to stretch the shoulder capsule and improve range of motion.
- Strengthening Exercises: Exercises to strengthen the shoulder muscles and improve overall shoulder function.
- Manual Therapy: Techniques used by physiotherapists to mobilise the shoulder joint and reduce stiffness.

Acupuncture:
- Some patients find relief through acupuncture, which involves inserting thin needles into specific points on the body to alleviate pain and improve function.

Steroid Injections:
- Corticosteroid injections into the shoulder joint can reduce inflammation and provide pain relief, making it easier to perform physical therapy exercises. In the UK we only ted to offer this in the very first phase for pain control as there is no evidence to show it reduces the duration or recovery or improves level of recovery.

Joint Distension Injections:
- Injections of sterile water into the joint capsule can help stretch the tissue and increase the range of motion.

Shoulder Manipulation:
- In severe cases, under general anaesthesia, the shoulder may be gently manipulated to loosen the tightened tissues. This procedure can help restore movement but is typically followed by intensive physical therapy. We would be cautious with this approach in our clinical experience.

Surgery:
- Although rarely necessary, minimally invasive surgery (arthroscopy) may be recommended to remove scar tissue and adhesions in the shoulder joint. This procedure can help restore movement and reduce pain.

Patient Education Video - Frozen Shoulder

At Team Rehab UK, we are dedicated to helping our patients understand the causes of their symptoms, empowering them to effectively manage their condition both during and after their treatment.

Please note that some of our video content may have been developed with at American market in mind and as such, may contain different medical terminology, or approaches, compared to those we use in the UK. The content however remains highly informative and beneficial. You should seek advice from your UK based specialist before acting on, or implementing any advice contained, or inferred in the video, to ensure it complies with UK best practice standards.

Summary

Frozen shoulder is a disabling condition that can affect anyone, but it is more prevalent among women and individuals over 40. If you experience persistent shoulder pain and stiffness, it is crucial to consult a medical professional for evaluation. Early diagnosis and treatment can prevent further deterioration and help restore shoulder function, improving the quality of life.

At our clinic, we offer comprehensive physiotherapy in Northampton, including sports massage in Northampton, to support your recovery. We are recognised providers for Bupa Northampton and Axa Northampton, ensuring top-notch care. If you're struggling with shoulder pain in Northampton, our expert shoulder specialists in Northampton are here to help.

Book your appointment at Team Rehab uk in Northampton (Brixworth) or Corby, and take the first step towards a pain-free life. Share this information with friends or family who might benefit from our services, and let's help everyone get back to their best selves.

Other related pages you may find interesting or helpful

The shoulder, renowned for its remarkable flexibility, facilitates a wide array of movements such as forward flexion, abduction, adduction, external and internal rotation, and 360-degree circumduction.

Shoulder impingement, also known as swimmer's shoulder, tennis shoulder, or rotator cuff tendinitis, occurs when the tendons of the rotator cuff become inflamed or irritated.

A rotator cuff tear occurs when the tendons of the rotator cuff are damaged or torn. This can happen suddenly due to trauma or gradually from degeneration and ageing.

Shoulder instability is a prevalent condition that affects the most flexible joint in the human body. This joint's extraordinary range of motion, which allows us to perform various activities, also makes it susceptible to instability.

A clavicle fracture, commonly known as a broken collarbone, is a prevalent injury that significantly impacts the shoulder's function.

A mid humeral fracture is a break in the humerus bone that occurs between the shoulder and elbow joints. The humerus is the long bone of the upper arm, which connects the shoulder to the elbow.

A biceps tendon rupture is a significant injury affecting the biceps muscle, located at the front of your upper arm. This muscle plays a crucial role in bending (flexing) and rotating (supinating) your arm.

Intra-articular shoulder injections are a minimally invasive procedure designed to treat pain and improve shoulder mobility. These injections can be performed with the guidance of ultrasound or fluoroscopic imaging, which allows the consultant to precisely target the intra-articular space.

If you’d like more information about our features, get in touch today.

BOOK ONLINE

CALL US

WHY WE STAND OUT AT TEAM REHAB UK

Extensive Experience and Expertise

Our team of physiotherapists boast more than 24 years of hands-on experience each, in treating a wide range of back pain conditions. This extensive experience ensures that you receive the highest standard of care, utilising proven techniques and the latest advancements in physiotherapy.

Tailored Treatment Plans

At Team Rehab UK Ltd, we understand that every patient is unique. Our physiotherapists conduct thorough assessments to develop personalised treatment plans that address the root cause of your back pain. Whether you're suffering from acute discomfort or chronic pain, we have the expertise to help.

Our Commitment to Your Well-Being with Patient-Centered Care

Your health and well-being are our top priorities. We take the time to listen to your concerns, understand your goals, and work collaboratively with you to achieve lasting relief from back pain. Our friendly and supportive team is here to guide you every step of the way.

Ongoing Support and Education

We believe in empowering our patients with the knowledge and tools they need to maintain a healthy spine. Our physiotherapists provide ongoing support and education, helping you prevent future injuries and manage your condition effectively.

Convenient Locations in Brixworth and Corby

Brixworth Clinic

Our main rehabilitation centre in Northampton (Brixworth) was purpose built with the sole aim of providing the best opportunities for our expert team to provide you with the best recovery potential. Open in April 2024, the clinic is conveniently located and easily accessible, offering a welcoming environment where you can receive the highest standard of care. We are committed to making your visit as comfortable and effective as possible.

Corby Clinic

The Corby clinic is a much smaller set up within the Lakeside medical centre but we strive to deliver the same exceptional physiotherapy services, within the confines of the setting, ensuring that high-quality physiotherapy is available to the wider community. Our dedicated team is ready to help you overcome back pain and improve your quality of life.

Our Company Mantra of

Honesty, Quality and Integrity in Physiotherapy Healthcare

guides every aspect of our practice

Still Unsure of Something?

We do our very best to put as much on our website as possible however we appreciate there will still be lots of questions and queries. No problem whatsoever, call us for urgent topics or use our contact form to communicate with one of our experts.