Frozen Shoulder

Here at Usk Osteopathy, we specialize in the treatment of Frozen Shoulder, a painfully debilitating shoulder condition that primarily affects the 40-60 age group. Frozen Shoulder affects between 5-8% of 40 to 60 year olds, often for no apparent reason, although it may stem from an injury. More often patients are aware of having “tweaked” their shoulder, on reaching into the back of the car for example, and despite rest, the shoulder has become progressively more painful and more difficult to move. Frozen Shoulder has three distinct phases and lasts on average 30 months, although research has shown that even after 5 years as many as 70% of individuals may have some degree of restriction.

What are the symptoms of a Frozen Shoulder?

Common symptoms of a Frozen Shoulder include the following:

  • Severe, sharp, stabbing pain on sudden movement, lasting up to 40 seconds
  • Constant background ache of the shoulder region
  • Shoulder stiffness
  • Night pain, waking you from sleep often several times a night
  • Unable to lie on affected side
  • Difficulty putting on coats, reaching up, brushing your hair, doing up your bra etc
  • Pain from innocuous activity (out of proportion to activity)
  • Progressive restriction of movement of the affected arm

How we can help?

Here at Usk Osteopathy we treat Frozen Shoulder using a novel new treatment approach developed by Simeon Niel-Asher of the London Frozen Shoulder Clinic. This approach works differently to tradititional treatment approaches which often attempt to improve the range of motion by forcing the shoulder through the blockage; this in our opinion can make things considerably worse. During our treatment we work on the arm in a neutral position, whilst we apply a sequence of pressure points to specific tissues. Although these points can be painful, most patients describe it as a “good pain” as they instinctively feel it is doing them good. The first few sessions of the technique are initially aimed at eliminating the pain, after this the emphasis is on improving the range of motion. Depending how long you have had the problem and which phase you are in, results can be seen in as few as 4 sessions. The results can be dramatic and fast and the method is totally natural, avoiding the need for invasive procedures such as injections and or surgery. For more information on this safe, proven and effective treatment, please see www.frozenshoulder.com.