Frozen shoulder, also known as adhesive capsulitis, is characterized by loss of motion in the joint and painful movement. Since there’s no single cause, you can’t necessarily prevent the condition, but you can treat it. StayFIT Physical Therapy, with locations in Aiea and Kapolei, HI, is home to Oahu’s best physical therapists, and they explain the issue and how to ease the discomfort.

Contributing factors to frozen shoulder include the development of scar tissue after an injury or surgery as well as periods of immobilization, such as when an arm is in a sling while healing from a fracture. Other painful conditions, including tendinitis and arthritis, also are associated with frozen shoulder. However, it’s sometimes impossible to identify a cause of the problem.

Initial signs of frozen shoulder are hard to pinpoint. In the first few months, symptoms might include a dull ache when the affected shoulder is immobile and sharp pain during movement. Range of motion in the joint will progressively decrease and discomfort might increase, especially at night. A frozen shoulder typically “thaws” after a year or so but can last longer.

The best physical therapists will tell you to seek treatment for your ailing shoulder immediately rather than wait for the trouble to subside. A regimen of stretching and massage therapy by a skilled professional will decrease pain and help you maintain as much movement as possible. Once your shoulder begins to heal, a physical therapist will help you regain lost range in the joint.

If you’re experiencing frozen shoulder or other chronic discomfort, StayFIT Physical Therapy is ready to help you recover. The island’s best physical therapists will tailor treatment to your needs, whether you have carpal tunnel syndrome, whiplash, or back pain. Visit them online to read testimonials from satisfied patients and download forms. To schedule an appointment, call their Aiea office at (808) 487-0487 or their Kapolei clinic at (808) 674-0500. Like them on Facebook for more tips and news from their sports medicine team.