Frozen shoulder clinically known as adhesive capsulitis can silently lock your shoulder, restrict your range of motion, and make daily life a painful challenge. At ProKineticsPT in Bensonhurst, Brooklyn, our licensed therapists specialize in effective frozen shoulder treatment with a combination of advanced manual therapy and individualized exercises designed to restore shoulder function safely.
If you’ve been struggling with stiffness, pain, or limited movement, here’s what you need to know about frozen shoulder and how to start unlocking relief right here in your neighborhood.
What Is Frozen Shoulder (Adhesive Capsulitis)?
Frozen shoulder develops when the shoulder capsule (the connective tissue surrounding your shoulder joint) thickens and tightens, restricting movement. It often appears gradually and follows a three-stage process:
Freezing Stage: Pain increases, especially at night. Range of motion begins to decrease.
Frozen Stage: Pain may lessen, but stiffness gets worse.
Thawing Stage: Shoulder movement slowly improves.
This condition typically affects adults between 40 and 60. It is also more common among people with diabetes, post-surgical shoulder immobility, or thyroid disorders. An effective adhesive capsulitis treatment plan must account for these stages.
Why Clinical Care is Essential for Frozen Shoulder
Many people attempt to “wait it out,” but that can lead to longer recovery times and more restrictive scar tissue. Our licensed therapists at ProKineticsPT in Bensonhurst use targeted manual therapy techniques including joint mobilization and capsule stretching to reduce stiffness and speed up recovery. We don’t just treat the shoulder; we start with a comprehensive assessment to identify the exact source of your restriction.
5 Safe Exercises for Frozen Shoulder Relief
These frozen shoulder exercises are clinically proven and are often prescribed as part of a personalized rehab plan. They should be performed gently, without causing sharp pain.
Passive Doorway Stretch
Stand in a doorway and place your elbow at 90 degrees on the frame. Gently rotate your body away from the door to feel a mild stretch. Hold for 30 seconds. Repeat 3 times.Towel Stretch
Hold a towel behind your back with one hand above and one hand below. Use the top hand to gently pull the lower hand upward, stretching the front of your shoulder. Hold for 2-3 seconds and repeat 10 times.Finger Walk (Wall Climb)
Face a wall about two feet away. Using your fingers, “walk” your hand upward as far as you can without pain. Hold briefly, then walk back down. Repeat 10-20 times a day.Cross-Body Stretch
While standing or sitting, gently pull one arm across your body at shoulder height. You should feel the stretch on the outside of your shoulder. Hold for 30 seconds. Repeat 3 times.Resistance Band External Rotation
Tie a resistance band to a doorknob. With your elbow at your side and bent to 90 degrees, gently pull the band away from your body. Hold for 5 seconds, then return. Repeat 10 reps, 3 sets.
When Is It Time to See a Physical Therapist?
If your shoulder pain limits sleep, daily tasks like dressing or reaching, or continues for more than a few weeks, don’t wait. Early intervention with shoulder pain physical therapy in Bensonhurst can make all the difference.
Why ProKineticsPT is Brooklyn’s Choice for Frozen Shoulder Relief
For patients seeking physical therapy for frozen shoulder in Brooklyn, our clinic offers a proven path to recovery.
Licensed therapists specializing in shoulder rehabilitation
Conveniently located in Bensonhurst, Brooklyn
Accepting most insurance plans
Walk-ins and same-day appointments often available
Frequently Asked Questions About Frozen Shoulder Treatment
1. What are the 3 stages of frozen shoulder?
Frozen shoulder typically has three stages: the painful "Freezing" stage, the stiff "Frozen" stage, and the "Thawing" stage where motion returns. Physical therapy at ProKineticsPT helps manage symptoms and accelerate recovery through each stage.
2. Can a frozen shoulder heal on its own?
While it can improve over time, this process can take years and may result in incomplete recovery. Professional frozen shoulder treatment, including manual therapy and exercises, is proven to speed up recovery and restore better function.
3. What is the best treatment for frozen shoulder?
The most effective treatment for frozen shoulder is a combination of approaches. At our Bensonhurst clinic, we use hands-on manual therapy to stretch the joint and prescribe specific exercises, like the ones in this guide, to safely improve your range of motion.
Start Your Frozen Shoulder Recovery in Brooklyn Today
Don’t let frozen shoulder control your life. Our team at ProKineticsPT is ready to provide you with an effective frozen shoulder treatment plan to help you regain motion and live pain-free.
📞 Book your comprehensive shoulder evaluation at ProKineticsPT in Bensonhurst today.
