If you’re dealing with persistent shoulder pain and stiffness, it could be frozen shoulder, also known as adhesive capsulitis. At Bodyworks Physical Therapy in Fargo, we specialize in treating orthopedic conditions like frozen shoulder with evidence-based physical therapy that helps restore mobility, reduce pain, and get you back to the activities you love, without surgery.
What Is Frozen Shoulder?
Frozen shoulder is a condition that causes pain, stiffness, and limited range of motion in the shoulder joint. It typically develops slowly over time and may go through three key phases:
- Freezing Stage: Increasing pain and loss of movement.
- Frozen Stage: Pain may lessen, but stiffness and limited mobility persist.
- Thawing Stage: Gradual return of movement and strength.
Frozen shoulder most commonly affects people between the ages of 40 and 60, and is more prevalent in women. It can also occur after shoulder surgery or injury, or as a result of immobility due to other health conditions.
Signs You May Have Frozen Shoulder
- Shoulder pain that worsens at night or with movement
- Difficulty reaching overhead or behind your back
- Stiffness that limits daily tasks like dressing or reaching
- A gradual onset of symptoms over several weeks or months
If these symptoms sound familiar, it’s time to talk to a physical therapist.
How Physical Therapy Helps Frozen Shoulder Recovery
At Bodyworks Physical Therapy, we create tailored treatment plans to help you recover faster and more comfortably. Our approach includes:
Manual Therapy
Our therapists use hands-on techniques to mobilize the shoulder joint and surrounding soft tissues, promoting improved range of motion and decreased stiffness.
Targeted Stretching and Strengthening
We guide you through gentle, progressive exercises to restore flexibility and build strength in the muscles supporting the shoulder joint.
Pain Management Techniques
Modalities such as heat therapy may be used to help manage inflammation and discomfort during recovery.
Education and Home Exercise Programs
We empower you with the tools and techniques to continue progress at home, helping speed up your recovery and prevent future stiffness.
What to Expect During Frozen Shoulder Treatment
Recovery from frozen shoulder takes time, but with consistent physical therapy, most patients see significant improvements in mobility and pain within a few months.
Your treatment plan at Bodyworks will be:
- Customized to your stage of frozen shoulder
- Focused on safe progression through range-of-motion goals
- Guided by experienced physical therapists
We’re here to help you regain independence and get back to your daily activities without discomfort or restriction.
Get Back to Pain-Free Shoulder Movement
Frozen shoulder doesn’t have to freeze your lifestyle. At Bodyworks Physical Therapy, we help you recover safely, effectively, and with personalized care that supports your long-term mobility.
Request an appointment today and take the first step toward lasting shoulder relief.