What causes it
Frozen shoulder happens when the capsule around the shoulder joint becomes inflamed, thickened and tight. The exact cause is not always clear, but some factors increase the risk.
- Age, most commonly between 40 and 60
- Diabetes and thyroid conditions
- A period of reduced shoulder movement after injury or surgery
- It is more common in women
Common symptoms
Frozen shoulder typically moves through painful, stiff and recovery phases.
- Deep, aching shoulder pain, often worse at night
- Difficulty reaching overhead or behind your back
- Loss of rotation, such as when doing up a bra or tucking in a shirt
- Pain lying on the affected side
How we assess it
Your first appointment is a full physiotherapy assessment in our Umm Suqeim clinic. We take a detailed history, examine posture and movement, test strength, flexibility and joint mobility, and carry out specific clinical tests. We also screen for signs that need a doctor's review or imaging. You leave with a clear explanation and a personalised plan. We measure your shoulder range carefully so we can track change over time.
How we treat it
In the painful phase, treatment focuses on easing pain and maintaining what movement you have, using gentle manual therapy, Electrons Plus PEMF and pain-free exercise. Dry needling can help with muscle tension around the shoulder blade. As pain settles, treatment progresses to stretching and strengthening to restore range and function.
Treatments we use
- Manual Therapy and Massage for frozen shoulderHands-on joint mobilisation and soft tissue work to ease pain and restore movement.
- Electrons Plus PEMF Therapy for frozen shoulderThe first clinic in Dubai with the Electrons Plus 1: practitioner-guided PEMF.
- Dry Needling for frozen shoulderFine-needle treatment of muscle trigger points in the neck, traps, back and shoulders.
When to seek help
Book an assessment if shoulder stiffness is getting worse or affects your sleep and daily tasks. Seek medical care promptly if shoulder pain follows a fall, comes with fever, or is accompanied by chest pain or shortness of breath.
Frequently asked questions
How long does frozen shoulder last?
Frozen shoulder can last from several months to a couple of years. Physiotherapy can help manage pain and maintain movement through each phase.
Should I keep moving my shoulder?
Gentle, comfortable movement is usually encouraged. Your physiotherapist will tailor exercises to how irritable the shoulder is.
Is frozen shoulder the same as a rotator cuff problem?
No. They can feel similar, which is why a careful assessment is important.
Can I sleep better with frozen shoulder?
Supporting the arm with a pillow and adjusting your position can help. We give practical advice at your assessment.
Will I need an injection or surgery?
Most people improve with physiotherapy. If progress is limited, we can discuss referral options with you.
Book your assessment in Umm Suqeim
Message our team on WhatsApp and we will confirm the next available appointment at Limitless 7 Clinic.
Book on WhatsAppThis information is for general education and is not a substitute for a medical assessment. Treatment plans are tailored to each patient following a consultation with our licensed practitioners.