Osteopathic Treatment for Frozen Shoulder and Differential Diagnosis at Wimbledon Clinic Osteopathy

Frozen shoulder, also known as adhesive capsulitis, is an ailment causing pain, stiffness, and reduced shoulder mobility. Its symptoms can often be confused with other shoulder disorders like calcific tendonitis, shoulder impingement, and rotator cuff injuries. Distinguishing between these conditions is crucial for effective treatment. Wimbledon Clinic Osteopathy stands at the forefront of providing comprehensive care, drawing upon osteopathic principles to treat frozen shoulder and its mimicking conditions.

Distinguishing Frozen Shoulder

Frozen shoulder unfolds in three phases:

1. Freezing Stage: Sharp pain and escalating stiffness.
2. Frozen Stage: Decreasing pain but persistent stiffness.
3. Thawing Stage: Slowly improving range of motion.

Though a frozen shoulder can resolve over time, osteopathic interventions can significantly expedite recovery (Griggs et al., 2000).

Understanding Differential Diagnoses

• Calcific Tendonitis: Calcium deposits form in the shoulder tendons, causing pain. Unlike a frozen shoulder, its onset might be more abrupt and localised to the area of calcification.
• Shoulder Impingement: Swelling, pain, or bone changes cause the rotator cuff to be compressed against the acromion, the bony tip of the shoulder. Pain typically intensifies with overhead activities.
• Rotator Cuff Injuries: Tears or strains in the shoulder's rotator cuff tendons can mimic frozen shoulder symptoms but often result from trauma or overuse and can cause weakness in the shoulder.

The Osteopathic Approach at Wimbledon Clinic Osteopathy

Holistic osteopathic methods can address the root causes of shoulder pain, be it a frozen shoulder or its differential diagnoses.

1. Manual Manipulation: Techniques to improve mobility, lessen pain, and curtail inflammation.
2. Myofascial Release: A strategy to alleviate fascial tightness, enhancing motion and comfort (Baker et al., 2016).
3. Muscle Energy Techniques (MET): Patient-involved manual therapy tailored to specific shoulder conditions, restoring range and alleviating pain (Chila et al., 2011).
4. Exercise Prescription: Individualized exercises foster healing, boost strength, and prevent future injuries.
5. Patient Counseling: Educating patients about their condition fosters a proactive stance towards recovery.

Embracing Relief

While several conditions manifest as shoulder pain and stiffness, a precise diagnosis and tailored osteopathic treatments can pave the way to relief. The research underscores the efficacy of osteopathic care in managing a myriad of shoulder issues (Mansfield et al., 2018).

At Wimbledon Clinic Osteopathy, our commitment is holistic, evidence-based care. We aim to restore shoulder function, alleviate pain, and promote enduring wellness for every patient.

References:

• Robinson, C.M. et al. (2012). Frozen shoulder. Journal of Bone & Joint Surgery, 94(1), 1-9.
• Griggs, S.M. et al. (2000). Manipulation under anaesthesia for primary frozen shoulder: effect on early recovery and return to activity. Journal of Shoulder and Elbow Surgery, 9(1), 23-29.
• Baker, K.G. et al. (2016). Myofascial release as a treatment for orthopaedic conditions: a systematic review. Journal of Athletic Training, 51(7), 572-581.
• Chila, A.G., & American Osteopathic Association. (2011). Foundations of osteopathic medicine. Lippincott Williams & Wilkins.
• Mansfield, C.J. et al. (2018). Osteopathic manipulative treatment in the management of musculoskeletal pain: A systematic review. Journal of the American Osteopathic Association, 118(9), 601-611.