Frozen shoulder, also known as adhesive capsulitis, is a condition characterized by progressive pain, stiffness, and restricted movement of the shoulder joint. The joint capsule gradually becomes inflamed and thickened, making everyday activities such as reaching overhead, dressing, or sleeping on the affected side increasingly difficult. At Relief Orthopedics, we provide comprehensive non-surgical orthopedic care designed to reduce pain, restore shoulder mobility, improve function, and help patients recover safely without unnecessary surgery.

Conveniently located in the heart of Myeongdong, our clinic welcomes both local residents and international patients seeking evidence-based orthopedic care.

Relief Orthopedics
9, Namdaemun-ro 10-gil, Jung-gu, Seoul, Korea

Common Frozen Shoulder Conditions We Treat

• Adhesive capsulitis
• Primary frozen shoulder
• Secondary frozen shoulder
• Post-traumatic shoulder stiffness
• Post-surgical shoulder stiffness
• Chronic shoulder pain
• Restricted shoulder mobility
• Shoulder joint capsule tightness
• Painful shoulder stiffness
• Limited overhead motion
• Shoulder contracture
• Progressive shoulder immobility

Symptoms That Should Not Be Ignored

Frozen shoulder typically develops gradually through painful and stiffening phases.

Common symptoms include:

• Persistent shoulder pain
• Progressive shoulder stiffness
• Difficulty reaching overhead
• Pain while dressing
• Difficulty fastening clothing behind the back
• Pain during sleep
• Reduced range of motion
• Shoulder weakness due to disuse
• Difficulty lifting objects
• Pain during daily activities
• Limited arm movement
• Difficulty performing personal care tasks

Our Comprehensive Non-Surgical Frozen Shoulder Treatments

Orthopedic Evaluation

Every treatment begins with a detailed orthopedic examination to assess shoulder mobility, pain, joint stiffness, and the stage of frozen shoulder. Imaging studies may be recommended to rule out other shoulder conditions.

Personalized Physical Therapy

Customized rehabilitation focuses on gradually restoring shoulder flexibility, reducing pain, and improving range of motion throughout each stage of recovery.

Manual Therapy

Hands-on orthopedic treatment helps improve joint mobility, reduce capsular tightness, and enhance shoulder movement.

Therapeutic Stretching & Exercise Programs

Individualized stretching and strengthening exercises help restore shoulder mobility while minimizing discomfort and preventing further stiffness.

Activity Modification & Home Exercise Education

Patients receive guidance on safe daily activities and home exercise programs that support recovery without aggravating symptoms.

Ultrasound-Guided Injections

For patients with significant pain or inflammation, ultrasound-guided injections may provide targeted pain relief, allowing more effective participation in rehabilitation.

Image-Guided Pain Management

Image-guided procedures may reduce inflammation and facilitate rehabilitation when conservative treatment alone is insufficient.

Long-Term Shoulder Rehabilitation

Continued rehabilitation helps restore strength, flexibility, and normal shoulder mechanics while reducing the risk of persistent motion loss.

Why Choose Relief Orthopedics?

• Orthopedic specialists experienced in shoulder disorders
• Conservative treatment-first philosophy
• Individualized rehabilitation programs
• Modern diagnostic equipment
• Advanced pain management
• Evidence-based shoulder rehabilitation
• International patient-friendly services
• English-speaking assistance
• Convenient Myeongdong location
• Comprehensive follow-up care

Who Can Benefit?

Our treatments are suitable for:

• Adults with frozen shoulder
• Patients with chronic shoulder stiffness
• Individuals recovering from shoulder injuries
• Patients recovering after shoulder surgery
• Individuals with diabetes-related frozen shoulder
• Office workers
• Seniors
• Patients with progressive loss of shoulder motion
• Individuals wishing to avoid shoulder surgery
• International patients seeking conservative orthopedic care

Frequently Asked Questions

What is frozen shoulder?

Frozen shoulder, or adhesive capsulitis, is a condition in which the shoulder capsule becomes inflamed and stiff, causing pain and progressive restriction of shoulder movement.

What causes frozen shoulder?

Frozen shoulder may develop without a clear cause or after injury, surgery, prolonged shoulder immobilization, or certain medical conditions such as diabetes.

Can frozen shoulder improve without surgery?

Yes. Most patients recover with rehabilitation, physical therapy, stretching exercises, pain management, and ultrasound-guided injections when appropriate. Surgery is rarely required.

How long does recovery take?

Recovery varies depending on the stage of frozen shoulder. Many patients improve gradually over several months, while complete recovery may take one to two years.

Is exercise important?

Yes. Carefully supervised stretching and mobility exercises are among the most important treatments for restoring shoulder movement and preventing long-term stiffness.

Are ultrasound-guided injections safe?

Yes. Ultrasound guidance improves injection accuracy and may reduce pain, allowing patients to participate more comfortably in rehabilitation.

Can frozen shoulder return?

Recurrence in the same shoulder is uncommon, although some patients may later develop frozen shoulder in the opposite shoulder.

Can international patients receive treatment?

Yes. Relief Orthopedics welcomes international patients seeking comprehensive non-surgical orthopedic care while visiting Seoul.