Adhesive Capsulitis

What is adhesive capsulitis?

Adhesive capsulitis, commonly called frozen shoulder, is a condition where the shoulder joint becomes stiff, painful, and loses much of its normal range of motion. It occurs when the connective tissue around the joint capsule becomes inflamed, thickened, and tight, making everyday movements difficult and sometimes nearly impossible.

Above: Shoulder assessment conducted by experienced therapist

What causes adhesive capsulitis?

Adhesive capsulitis may develop without an obvious cause, but several factors can increase the risk. It can arise after a shoulder injury, surgery, or prolonged immobility, and is more common in people with certain medical conditions such as diabetes, thyroid problems, or heart disease. Inflammation and tightening of the joint capsule are key changes that lead to the stiffness and pain associated with the condition.

  • Shoulder trauma
  • Shoulder surgery
  • Diabetes
  • High cholesterol
  • Heart disease
  • Dupuytren's contracture
  • Age and gender: 40 - 60 year olds are generally more affected and women are generally
  • more affected then men.

What are the symptoms of adhesive capsulitis?

The main symptoms are:

  • Pain and stiffness in the shoulder
  • Pain at night when lying on the affected side
  • Limited range of movement

Adhesive capsulitis has three stages of symptoms:

  • Freezing – pain and progressively limiting movement
  • Frozen – pain is reduced but movement is very limited
  • Thawing – pain is gone and the shoulder returns to normal movement

This process can take several years to occur.

Physiotherapy for adhesive capsulitis

Physiotherapy plays a key role in managing frozen shoulder and restoring normal movement. At Ace Physio Sports, our experienced physiotherapists specialise in treating adhesive capsulitis with personalised care plans. Treatment may include targeted exercises, manual therapy techniques, stretching programs, and pain-relief strategies designed to progressively improve mobility and reduce discomfort.

  • Stretching exercises
  • Range of movement exercises
  • Strengthening exercises
  • Ultrasound
  • Heat therapy
  • Hydrotherapy
  • Advice on cortisone injections

Can adhesive capsulitis cause any long-term effects?

Adhesive capsulitis often follows a prolonged course, but with timely and effective treatment, the shoulder can typically regain its full range of motion and become pain-free.

To arrange an appointment, please call +65 81535374 or visit acephysiosports.com.

Get treated today!

We have immediate appointments available today. Contact us to make an appointment.

Find out more »

We are open...

Our clinics are open:
Mon - Fri: 8am - 8pm
Sat: 8am - 4pm
Sun: On Appointment Basis

Find your nearest clinic

Acephysio Sports have clinics located throughout the Singapore.

Find out more »