Frozen Shoulder
Frozen shoulder, also known as adhesive capsulitis is a debilitating condition that happens when the tissue around one or both of your shoulders joints becomes inflamed, mainly affecting people between 40 to 60 years old. There is a gradual and progressive stiffening of the affected tissues, leading to a significant reduction in movement. Over time, the stiffness and limited movement will cause the soft tissues and muscles around the shoulder joint to contract and shorten. It can take several months to regain the lost movement.
The causes of frozen shoulder are unknown and unfortunately, the condition can last anywhere from 18 months up to five years in some cases. It is important to seek help and advice to ease the pain and stiffness felt in your shoulder during this time, without input from a professional symptoms may worsen and recovery may take longer.
Osteopathy Treatment for Frozen Shoulder
According to the NHS website, one of the most effective treatments for a frozen shoulder is stretching and strengthening exercises as well as postural advice. Osteopathy would be an ideal complementary therapy to have alongside any NHS treatment you may already be receiving. An osteopath is able to guide you through gentle exercises and stretches to help to release the painful and stiff shoulder muscles. Soft tissue massage and gentle articulation of the shoulder and surrounding tissues can help to relieve tensions and may help to maintain muscle length.
In some cases, gentle exercise classes such as Pilates can help to improve joint mobility, with a focus on strengthening muscles to support the shoulder during recovery from the condition. The London osteopath clinics are able to offer Pilates classes in central London, Beckenham and Holborn locations so easily accessible to London clients.
Gentle stretching and strengthening through a combination of osteopathy and Pilates at the London Osteopathy clinic may help to improve your overall function, enabling you to continue with your normal lifestyle until the symptoms of a frozen shoulder eventually subside. The advice, treatment, support and guidance your professional osteopath can offer you could help to ease the pain and stiffness felt during this time.
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