Frozen shoulder rarely starts suddenly. For many people, it begins as mild shoulder pain that slowly turns into stiffness, restricted movement, and discomfort that doesn’t improve with rest. Everyday tasks like reaching overhead, getting dressed, or sleeping comfortably can become frustrating and painful.
Without proper treatment, frozen shoulder can last months — sometimes years — significantly impacting quality of life.
Shoulder pain relief at Midland Sports Rehab and Active Orthopedics
What Is Frozen Shoulder?
Frozen shoulder, also known as adhesive capsulitis, occurs when the connective tissue surrounding the shoulder joint becomes thick, tight, and inflamed. This limits the joint’s ability to move freely and causes pain at rest and with movement.
Common risk factors include:
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Shoulder injury or surgery
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Prolonged immobilization
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Diabetes or thyroid conditions
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Poor posture or repetitive upper-body strain
Frozen shoulder typically progresses through stages, which is why a targeted treatment plan is essential.
Why Rest Alone Isn’t Enough
While resting a painful shoulder may seem helpful, inactivity often worsens stiffness. Over time, limited movement causes the shoulder capsule to tighten further, making recovery slower and more difficult.
Pain medications may mask symptoms temporarily, but they don’t restore mobility or address the underlying restriction.
How Physical Therapy Helps at Midland Sports Rehab
At Midland Sports Rehab and Active Orthopedics, our physical therapy teams focus on restoring shoulder function safely and progressively — based on your specific stage of frozen shoulder.
Your customized treatment plan may include:
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Hands-on manual therapy to improve joint mobility and reduce stiffness
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Targeted stretching and mobility exercises to restore range of motion
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Progressive strengthening to support the shoulder as movement improves
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Pain-management strategies to keep therapy comfortable and effective
Our goal is to improve motion without aggravating the joint, allowing steady progress instead of setbacks.
What Results Can You Expect?
With consistent care, patients often experience:
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Reduced pain and stiffness
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Improved shoulder mobility
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Better sleep comfort
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Easier performance of daily activities
Early intervention often leads to faster recovery and better long-term outcomes.
Shoulder Pain? Midland Sports Rehab and Active Orthopedics can help
When Should You Seek Help?
If shoulder pain and stiffness are limiting your movement, or if your range of motion is decreasing over time, it’s important to seek professional care. Waiting too long can prolong recovery and increase frustration.
Start Moving Again with Confidence
Frozen shoulder doesn’t have to control your daily life. With the right physical therapy approach, you can regain motion, reduce pain, and return to the activities you enjoy.
At Midland Sports Rehab and Active Orthopedics, our team of experts in physical therapy, chiropractic care, massage, acupuncture, and assisted stretching work together to give you the care you truly need — tailored to your goals and lifestyle.
Book an appointment today!
📞 Call 989.341.1070 to schedule
📍 Midland Sports Rehab
4710 Eastman Avenue, Midland, MI 48640
📍Active Orthopedics
317 E Wackerly St, Midland, MI 48642