Physiotherapy Management of Right Frozen Shoulder: A Case Report

Abstract

Introduction: Frozen shoulder, also known as adhesive capsulitis, is a chronic inflammation of the glenohumeral joint capsule that results in pain and restricted shoulder range of motion, particularly in rotational movements. Its onset can be either traumatic or idiopathic, with higher prevalence in females.

Methods: This case report describes a patient diagnosed with right frozen shoulder, presenting with muscle spasms in the deltoid and upper trapezius, pain at rest and during movement, decreased shoulder muscle strength, and impaired functional activity assessed using the Shoulder Pain and Disability Index (SPADI). The patient underwent five physiotherapy sessions, which combined transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS), infrared therapy, and targeted exercise therapy.

Results: Following five treatment sessions, the patient demonstrated reduced pain, decreased muscle spasm, increased shoulder range of motion, improved muscle strength, and enhanced functional activity. These findings suggest that the combined physiotherapy modalities effectively addressed severe functional limitations associated with frozen shoulder.

Conclusion: Adhesive capsulitis leads to joint stiffness, tissue deterioration, pain, and decreased quality of life. A multimodal physiotherapy approach incorporating TENS, infrared therapy, and exercise therapy over five sessions effectively alleviated symptoms and improved functional outcomes in this patient.