Understanding Frozen Shoulder and How KC Spine and Sport Can Help

Frozen shoulder, or adhesive capsulitis, is a painful condition that causes stiffness and loss of motion in the shoulder joint. It often develops gradually and can make everyday tasks—like reaching overhead or sleeping comfortably—extremely difficult.

Your shoulder is a ball-and-socket joint made up of three bones: the upper arm (humerus), shoulder blade (scapula), and collarbone (clavicle). These are surrounded by a layer of connective tissue called the shoulder capsule, which helps keep the joint stable and moving smoothly. When frozen shoulder develops, this capsule thickens and tightens, restricting motion. Scar tissue may form, and lubrication in the joint decreases, leading to stiffness, pain, and inflammation.

Frozen shoulder symptoms typically progress through three stages. During the freezing stage, pain increases and motion becomes limited, often worse at night. The frozen stage brings less pain but greater stiffness, making movement difficult. Finally, during the thawing stage, mobility gradually returns and discomfort fades. Each stage can last for months, and full recovery without treatment may take a year or longer.

The good news is that most cases improve significantly with conservative treatment—no surgery required. At KC Spine and Sport in Overland Park, Dr. John McNeely takes a comprehensive, hands-on approach to treating frozen shoulder.

During the painful or “freezing” phase, the primary focus is on reducing inflammation and restoring comfort. Gentle chiropractic adjustments to the neck and mid-back help improve spinal mobility and reduce muscle tension that contributes to shoulder discomfort.

As symptoms progress, Dr. McNeely incorporates manual therapies such as Active Release Techniques (ART), dry needling, and targeted stretching to relieve tightness, restore blood flow, and break up scar tissue. When pain begins to subside, patients transition into guided range-of-motion and strengthening exercises designed to restore shoulder flexibility and stability.

Every patient receives a customized home exercise program to support recovery between visits. Consistency is key—regular movement helps prevent long-term stiffness and encourages the shoulder capsule to heal properly.

Frozen shoulder recovery takes time, but with the right care and persistence, full motion and strength can be restored. At KC Spine and Sport, our goal is to help patients regain pain-free movement, return to their normal activities, and prevent future stiffness.

If you’re struggling with shoulder pain, limited movement, or suspect frozen shoulder, don’t wait for it to worsen. Schedule an appointment with KC Spine and Sport to begin a treatment plan tailored to your recovery and long-term shoulder health.

KC Spine and Sport – Overland Park, KS
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