Frozen Shoulder or Muscle Tightness?
Shoulder pain can feel confusing. Is it frozen shoulder — or simply tight muscles?
Frozen shoulder (adhesive capsulitis) usually involves:
- Gradual onset
- Significant restriction of movement
- Pain at night
- Limited rotation, even when someone else moves your arm
It typically develops over months.
Muscular restriction, however, is often caused by:
- Rotator cuff overload
- Upper trapezius tension
- Postural strain
- Trigger points
In these cases, movement feels tight but not mechanically blocked.
At Days Mill Treatments in Nailsworth, I assess active and passive range of motion, scapular control and surrounding tissue tone to differentiate between the two.
Treatment may include:
- Trigger point therapy
- Fascial release
- Gentle mobilisation
- Strengthening advice
If true frozen shoulder is suspected, medical collaboration may be advised. If it’s muscular restriction, clinical massage can significantly improve mobility and reduce pain.
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