Improved Movement and Pain Relief: How Dry Needling Helps Frozen Shoulder

Frozen shoulder can make even the simplest tasks feel like a challenge, with pain and stiffness limiting your range of motion. If you’re struggling with this condition, dry needling is a promising treatment option that targets the root causes of discomfort. In this blog, we’ll explore how dry needling works for frozen shoulder, as well as practical steps to enhance your recovery journey.

What Is Dry Needling?

Dry needling is a therapeutic technique that involves inserting thin, sterile needles into specific trigger points or tight muscle bands to alleviate pain, reduce tension, and restore mobility. It targets myofascial trigger points—tight areas of muscle that can cause pain and restrict movement.

Unlike acupuncture, which is based on traditional Chinese medicine, dry needling is rooted in modern science and focuses on neuromuscular health. It’s a minimally invasive procedure often used alongside other physiotherapy techniques to address musculoskeletal conditions effectively.

Frozen Shoulder Explained

Frozen shoulder is characterized by the thickening and tightening of the capsule around the shoulder joint, leading to pain and reduced movement. It typically develops in three stages:

1. Freezing Stage: Gradual onset of pain and stiffness, with increasing difficulty in moving the shoulder.
2. Frozen Stage: Pain may decrease, but stiffness remains, severely limiting shoulder mobility.
3. Thawing Stage: Gradual improvement in movement and reduction of stiffness as the shoulder recovers.

The condition often develops after injury, surgery, or prolonged immobility and is more common in people with diabetes or certain hormonal imbalances. Without treatment, frozen shoulder can take years to resolve.

Benefits of Dry Needling for Frozen Shoulder

Dry needling offers several benefits for individuals dealing with frozen shoulder:

• Pain Relief: By releasing tight muscle bands and trigger points, dry needling reduces shoulder pain and improves comfort.
• Improved Mobility: Dry needling addresses muscular restrictions, helping to restore range of motion in the shoulder joint.
• Reduced Inflammation: The treatment stimulates blood flow, reducing inflammation and promoting tissue healing.
• Faster Recovery: When combined with physiotherapy exercises, dry needling accelerates recovery by addressing both pain and mobility limitations.
• Minimized Muscle Compensations: It helps relax overactive muscles that may be compensating for restricted shoulder movement.

Dry needling is particularly effective for frozen shoulder when included as part of a comprehensive treatment plan.

Is Dry Needling Safe for Treating Frozen Shoulder?

Yes, dry needling is a safe and effective treatment for frozen shoulder when performed by a trained and licensed physiotherapist. It is a minimally invasive procedure that specifically targets the muscles and tissues contributing to pain and restricted mobility. Physiotherapists are trained to assess your condition and ensure the treatment is appropriate for your individual needs.

While dry needling is generally safe, it’s important to inform your physiotherapist of any underlying medical conditions or concerns before starting treatment to minimize risks.

Possible Side Effects of Dry Needling for Frozen Shoulder

Dry needling is well-tolerated by most individuals, but as with any medical treatment, there are potential side effects. These are typically mild and temporary, including:

• Soreness: Mild soreness or tenderness at the needle insertion sites is common and usually subsides within 24–48 hours.
• Bruising: Small bruises may develop around the treatment area, particularly in people with sensitive skin or those prone to bruising.
• Fatigue: Some individuals report feeling fatigued or relaxed after a session, which is a natural response to the release of muscle tension.
• Minor Bleeding: In rare cases, a small amount of bleeding may occur at the needle insertion site.

These side effects are normal and not a cause for concern. Your physiotherapist will provide aftercare instructions to help manage any discomfort and ensure a smooth recovery.

How Many Dry Needling Sessions Are Needed for Frozen Shoulder Recovery?

The number of dry needling sessions required varies based on the severity of the frozen shoulder, its stage, and how an individual responds to treatment. For mild cases, noticeable improvement is often achieved within three to five sessions. More advanced or severe cases may necessitate six to ten sessions over a span of several weeks to effectively address the symptoms. 

For individuals with chronic conditions or those aiming to prevent recurrence, ongoing maintenance sessions may be recommended at intervals tailored to their specific needs. A physiotherapist will evaluate your condition and create a personalized treatment plan to maximize the effectiveness of the therapy and ensure optimal results.

Dry Needling Sessions for Frozen Shoulder: What to Expect

Understanding what happens during a dry needling session can help you feel more prepared and at ease. Here’s what you can expect:

1. Initial Assessment: The session begins with an evaluation of your shoulder’s mobility, pain levels, and muscle tension to identify the best areas for treatment.
2. Preparation: The physiotherapist cleans the treatment area and explains the procedure, ensuring you feel comfortable.
3. Needle Insertion: Thin needles are gently inserted into the targeted muscles and trigger points. You might feel a twitch response or slight discomfort, which is a sign the muscle is relaxing.
4. Duration: Needles are typically left in place for 5–10 minutes, depending on the treatment plan.
5. Post-Treatment Guidance: After the session, your physiotherapist may provide stretches or exercises to complement the treatment and enhance mobility.

Most individuals report noticeable improvements in pain and mobility after a few sessions, making dry needling a valuable addition to their recovery plan.

Managing Frozen Shoulder: Recommended Lifestyle Changes

In addition to dry needling, adopting certain lifestyle changes can help manage frozen shoulder symptoms and improve your recovery:

• Stay Active: Gentle movements and exercises, as recommended by your physiotherapist, can prevent further stiffness and maintain mobility. Avoid complete immobility, as this can worsen the condition.
• Apply Heat or Cold Therapy: Heat packs help relax tight muscles, while ice packs can reduce inflammation and soothe pain after activity.
• Practice Good Posture: Maintain proper posture, especially during desk work, to minimize strain on your shoulders and neck.
• Stretch Regularly: Incorporate shoulder stretches into your daily routine to maintain flexibility and reduce stiffness.
• Avoid Overuse: Limit activities that require repetitive or forceful shoulder movements to prevent aggravating the condition.
• Stay Hydrated: Proper hydration supports joint health and muscle function, which are crucial for recovery.

These changes, combined with professional treatments like dry needling, can significantly enhance your ability to manage and recover from frozen shoulder.

Pain is No Longer in Control

Dry needling is a safe and effective approach to managing frozen shoulder, offering relief from pain and stiffness while restoring mobility. When paired with lifestyle adjustments and personalized care, it can significantly improve your quality of life. 

At Roar Physio | Wellness, we’re here to support your recovery with dry needling treatments tailored to your unique needs. Book your session today and take the first step toward freedom from frozen shoulder.