Frozen Shoulder & Massage Therapy: What Actually Works?
If reaching for the top shelf or putting on a jacket sends pain shooting through your shoulder — you might be dealing with frozen shoulder.
Also known as adhesive capsulitis, this condition causes stiffness, pain, and reduced range of motion in the shoulder joint. It can last for months or even years if left untreated.
At Mi Vida Massage & Wellness, we’ve helped countless clients regain mobility and reduce pain — often when nothing else seemed to work.
❄️ What Is Frozen Shoulder?
Frozen shoulder is caused by inflammation and thickening of the shoulder joint capsule. It often develops slowly, with symptoms typically progressing in three stages:
Freezing Stage – Increasing pain and decreasing motion
Frozen Stage – Pain may decrease, but stiffness remains
Thawing Stage – Gradual return of motion
It’s more common in adults over 40, especially women, and often linked to injury, surgery, diabetes, or long periods of inactivity.
💆♂️ How Massage Therapy Can Help
Massage works by targeting surrounding muscles, breaking down scar tissue, and increasing blood flow to promote healing.
The right techniques can:
Reduce pain and inflammation
Loosen tight muscles around the shoulder and neck
Improve flexibility and range of motion
Relax the nervous system, allowing deeper work with less discomfort
👐 Most Effective Massage Techniques for Frozen Shoulder:
✅ Myofascial Release
✅ Deep Tissue Massage
✅ Trigger Point Therapy
✅ Passive Mobilization Techniques
✅ Lymphatic Drainage (if swelling is present)
Our therapists assess your stage of frozen shoulder and tailor the session to support healing without pushing too hard, too fast.
📅 When Should You Book a Massage?
Massage is most effective during the frozen and thawing stages — but even during the painful “freezing” stage, gentle massage can help calm the area and reduce inflammation.
You should book if you:
– Can’t raise your arm fully
– Wake up in pain
– Feel stiff even after rest
– Are going through rehab and need support
🌟 Real Relief Is Possible
With consistent care and the right techniques, massage therapy can speed up recovery — and give you your shoulder back.
Start Healing Your Shoulder Today