Frozen Shoulder Treatment at Forward Physical Therapy

Adhesive capsulitis (frozen shoulder) causes progressive stiffness, pain, and loss of range of motion that can last months to years without proper treatment. We treat frozen shoulder at every stage — from the acute inflammatory phase through full restoration of motion and strength.

What We Treat

  • Primary (idiopathic) frozen shoulder
  • Post-surgical adhesive capsulitis
  • Diabetes-related frozen shoulder (higher incidence and recurrence)
  • Post-fracture or post-immobilization shoulder stiffness

Our Approach

Frozen shoulder treatment must match the stage. Aggressive stretching during the inflammatory (“freezing”) phase makes things worse. We identify your stage, manage pain and inflammation first, then progressively restore motion with:

  • Manual therapy — joint mobilization, capsular stretching, and soft tissue work matched to tissue tolerance
  • Progressive ROM exercise — passive, active-assisted, and active range of motion protocols
  • Dry needling — for associated muscle guarding and trigger points
  • Strengthening — rotator cuff and scapular stabilization as motion returns
  • Home program — specific exercises with clear frequency and intensity guidelines

No Referral Needed

Wisconsin’s Direct Access law means you can start PT without a referral. Don’t wait for it to “thaw on its own” — active treatment shortens recovery.

The Forward PT Standard

Every session at Forward Physical Therapy is 1-on-1 with a Doctor of Physical Therapy. No aides, no double-booking, no exceptions. We combine evidence-based rehabilitation with our proprietary Return+ testing platform to deliver measurable outcomes — not just subjective notes.

Our Locations

Fitchburg: 6250 Nesbitt Rd, Suite 500, Fitchburg, WI 53719
Edgerton: 102 W Fulton St, Edgerton, WI 53534
Phone: (608) 561-7733

Book your appointment today →