Physical Therapy in Management of Frozen Shoulder

Frozen shoulder (adhesive capsulitis) is a disabling musculoskeletal disorder characterized by progressive pain and stiffness of the shoulder joint. This research paper investigates the management strategies for frozen shoulder, combining a review of current evidence with a case study analysis. A detailed literature review was conducted on exercise therapy, manual mobilizations, and electrotherapy modalities, including TENS, interferential therapy, shortwave diathermy, pulsed shortwave diathermy, and therapeutic ultrasound. Although exercise therapy and manual mobilizations are commonly recommended for both pain-predominant and stiffness-predominant stages of frozen shoulder, the use of electrotherapies remains controversial and is less favored among clinicians specializing in shoulder rehabilitation. Additionally, a case study was presented to demonstrate a practical application of these therapeutic interventions, focusing on stage-based treatment adaptation and patient-centered rehabilitation outcomes. The study highlights the importance of stage-specific intervention strategies and calls for higher-quality randomized controlled trials that better reflect clinical practice. The findings support the integration of individualized exercise therapy and manual techniques as primary management strategies, with cautious use of electrotherapies as adjunct modalities.