19/09/2025
Frozen Shoulder (Adhesive Capsulitis) the restriction is not because of one muscle, but due to tightening of the joint capsule around the shoulder. However, certain movements and muscle actions are most affected:
🔹 Movements Most Restricted:
External Rotation (most limited)
Abduction
Internal Rotation (later stage)
🔹 Muscles Functionally Affected:
Because of capsular tightness, the rotator cuff muscles (especially:
Supraspinatus → abduction
Infraspinatus & Teres Minor → external rotation
Subscapularis → internal rotation
also face resistance during movement.
Commonly follows a “3-stage pattern”:
Freezing stage – pain and increasing stiffness.
Frozen stage – marked stiffness, pain may reduce.
Thawing stage – gradual recovery of movement.
🔹 Physiotherapy Role
Pain management (heat, ultrasound, TENS).
Gentle stretching and mobilization.
Strengthening exercises for surrounding muscles.
Posture correction and home exercise program.
🔹 Recovery Time
Can take 12–18 months for full recovery.
Early physiotherapy speeds up mobility restorationFrozenShoulder