A shoulder that hurts and will not move can make simple tasks very hard: combing your hair, dressing, reaching a shelf, or sleeping on one side. This problem is often called frozen shoulder, and its medical name is adhesive capsulitis. If you are looking for frozen shoulder treatment in Dhaka, this guide explains the causes and the treatment options.
What causes frozen shoulder?
If you are asking what causes frozen shoulder, the short answer is this: the soft tissue capsule around the shoulder joint becomes inflamed, thick, and tight, so the joint loses its normal movement. Doctors do not always find one clear reason, but some things raise the risk:
- Diabetes. People with diabetes are more likely to get frozen shoulder.
- Not moving the shoulder for a long time, for example after an injury, surgery, or a fracture
- Thyroid problems and some other medical conditions
- Age and sex. It is most common between about 40 and 60 years, and is more common in women.
- A previous shoulder injury or other shoulder problem
Many people have none of these and still get it. A proper examination is the only way to know what applies to you.
Treatment options for frozen shoulder
There are several treatments for frozen shoulder. The right choice depends on your pain, how stiff the shoulder is, and how long you have had it.
1. Physiotherapy. This is the main treatment for most people. It focuses on easing pain, restoring movement, and regaining strength.
2. Pain relief from a doctor. A doctor may advise pain medicine to help you do your exercises more comfortably.
3. Injections. In some cases a doctor may suggest an injection into the shoulder to reduce pain and inflammation. This is decided by a doctor, not by a physiotherapist.
4. Procedures or surgery. These are only considered for a small number of people whose shoulder does not improve with other treatment.
How physiotherapy treats frozen shoulder at Back in Motion
1. Assessment. We ask about your pain, sleep, work, and other health conditions such as diabetes. Then we check how far the shoulder moves on its own and with help, and your neck and upper back.
2. Your plan. You hear what we found, what stage the shoulder seems to be in, what the goals are, and how progress will be checked.
3. Treatment. Depending on your case, treatment may include gentle stretching, joint and soft tissue techniques (manual therapy), osteopathic manipulative treatment, electrotherapy, and strengthening exercises. The treatment is adjusted to your pain level, because pushing too hard can make a painful shoulder worse.
4. Home program. You learn short, regular exercises to do between visits. This daily practice matters a great deal in frozen shoulder.
Sessions usually last 45 to 60 minutes, and sometimes longer, depending on your case.
What to expect during recovery
Frozen shoulder usually moves through stages: a painful stage, a stiff stage, and a stage where movement slowly returns. Recovery often takes many months, and for some people longer than a year. Progress can feel slow, and it is normal to have good days and bad days. Regular treatment and exercise usually help the shoulder return to better movement and comfort.
When to see a doctor first
Get medical help urgently if you have:
- shoulder or arm pain together with chest pain, shortness of breath, or sweating
- shoulder pain after a fall, accident, or serious injury
- a shoulder that is hot, red, and very swollen
- fever together with shoulder pain
- new weakness, numbness, or loss of feeling in the arm
Meet the doctors
Dr. Md. Abdullah Yousuf, D.O. is an osteopathic physician who works with musculoskeletal conditions, structural assessment, and osteopathic manipulative treatment.
Dr. Tazia Sardar, DPT is a Doctor of Physical Therapy who works in orthopedic, sports, pediatric, and women’s health rehabilitation.
Visit our Dhaka clinic
Address: 4th Floor, Zaara Convention Center, House 7, Road 14, Gulshan-1, Dhaka 1212
Opening hours: Every day, 10am to 9pm
Phone: +880 1313 71 72 72
Learn more on our physiotherapy center in Gulshan and physiotherapy center in Dhaka pages. Living in Khulna? See our guide to frozen shoulder symptoms and care in Khulna.
Frequently asked questions
What is the best treatment for frozen shoulder?
Physiotherapy is the main treatment for most people. Some people also need pain relief or an injection from a doctor. Your physiotherapist or doctor will advise you after an examination.
How long does frozen shoulder treatment take?
It varies. Many people need several months, and some need longer. Your physiotherapist will explain what to expect after your assessment.
Is frozen shoulder the same as adhesive capsulitis?
Yes. Adhesive capsulitis is the medical name for frozen shoulder.
Can diabetes cause frozen shoulder?
Diabetes raises the risk of frozen shoulder. If you have diabetes and a stiff, painful shoulder, get it checked early.
How much does treatment cost in Dhaka?
Fees are given after your consultation, because every patient needs a different plan. Call +880 1313 71 72 72 to ask.
This article is general information, not medical advice. See a doctor first if you have severe pain, new weakness or numbness, or a recent injury.