Burwood NSW · Frozen Shoulder Treatment
Frozen shoulder (adhesive capsulitis) causes progressive stiffness and pain that severely limits shoulder movement. Without treatment, it can last 2–4 years. Expert physiotherapy significantly accelerates recovery.
The shoulder joint capsule becomes inflamed and thickened in frozen shoulder, dramatically reducing all shoulder movements. Our physiotherapists provide aggressive, targeted treatment to restore movement and eliminate pain.
How We Treat This Condition
Evidence-based treatment tailored to your specific presentation and goals.
Stage Assessment
Frozen shoulder progresses through freezing, frozen, and thawing stages. Identifying the stage guides the appropriate treatment intensity.
Learn more →Intensive Manual Therapy
Glenohumeral joint mobilisation, capsular stretching, and posterior shoulder release — the most effective hands-on approach to restoring range of motion.
Learn more →Dry Needling
Needling into the rotator cuff and capsular muscles reduces pain and spasm, enabling more effective stretching and joint mobilisation.
Learn more →Stretching & Exercise
A specific home stretching program for the shoulder capsule — essential for maintaining and building on the gains made in treatment sessions.
Learn more →Corticosteroid Injection Coordination
We work with your GP or specialist to time corticosteroid injections (when appropriate) to maximise the window of reduced pain for physiotherapy.
Learn more →Hydrodilation Support
Physiotherapy immediately following hydrodilation procedures maximises the restored movement before the capsule re-adheres.
Learn more →When to See a Physio for Frozen Shoulder
Early intervention matters with frozen shoulder — book an assessment as soon as you notice progressive stiffness and loss of movement, especially reaching behind your back or overhead, rather than waiting to see if it resolves on its own.
What Happens at Your First Appointment?
Full Assessment
Detailed history, movement analysis and clinical tests to identify the root cause of your problem.
Diagnosis & Plan
We explain exactly what is going on and create a realistic, goal-focused treatment timeline.
Hands-On Treatment
Most patients receive treatment in their first session — manual therapy, needling, or exercise prescription.
Home Program
You leave with clear exercises and self-management strategies to accelerate your recovery.
Why Choose Burwood Physio?
- AHPRA-registered physiotherapists
- Same-day and next-day appointments available
- HICAPS on-site — claim health fund rebate instantly
- Medicare bulk billing with GP CDM plan
- NDIS registered provider
- WorkCover and icare accepted
- Evidence-based treatment — no unnecessary sessions
- 2 minutes walk from Burwood Station
📍 Located in Burwood: Shop 2, 36–38 Victoria St East, Burwood NSW 2134. 2 min from Burwood Station. Open Mon–Sat.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is frozen shoulder?
Adhesive capsulitis — an inflammatory condition causing the shoulder joint capsule to thicken and contract, dramatically limiting shoulder movement.
How long does frozen shoulder last without treatment?
Frozen shoulder typically lasts 2–4 years without treatment. Physiotherapy significantly reduces this to 6–12 months in most patients.
What is the best treatment for frozen shoulder?
Intensive manual therapy — joint mobilisation and capsular stretching — combined with a consistent home program provides the best outcomes.
Should I rest a frozen shoulder?
No. Rest allows the capsule to stiffen further. Active physiotherapy is essential for recovery, even though movement may be painful.
Is frozen shoulder the same as a rotator cuff injury?
No. Frozen shoulder affects the joint capsule. Rotator cuff injuries affect the tendons. Both can cause shoulder pain but require different treatment.
What are the stages of frozen shoulder?
Frozen shoulder typically progresses through three stages: a painful freezing stage, a stiff frozen stage with reduced pain but limited movement, and a thawing stage where movement gradually returns.
Am I at higher risk of frozen shoulder if I have diabetes?
Yes. People with diabetes have a significantly higher risk of developing frozen shoulder, and it may take longer to resolve. Early physiotherapy is particularly valuable in this group.
What does frozen shoulder treatment involve at Burwood Physio?
Treatment is tailored to your stage — gentle pain relief and education in the early painful stage, followed by progressive mobility and strengthening exercises as stiffness reduces.
Can frozen shoulder come back in the same shoulder?
Recurrence in the same shoulder is uncommon, though it can occasionally affect the opposite shoulder in the following years, particularly in people with diabetes.
Will I need a cortisone injection for frozen shoulder?
Not always. Cortisone injections can help manage pain in the early painful stage for some patients, but physiotherapy remains central to restoring movement throughout recovery. We can discuss options and, if appropriate, coordinate with your GP.
Shoulder stiffness taking over your life?
Expert treatment dramatically accelerates frozen shoulder recovery. Book today.