Exercises for Shoulder Periarthritis

Three exercises are recommended for managing adhesive capsulitis (frozen shoulder).

1. Wall Climbing with Fingers: The patient stands facing a wall and uses the affected hand to slowly “climb” upward along the wall, raising the upper limb as high as possible. At maximum elevation, the position is held for 2–6 seconds. A mark is made on the wall at this highest point, after which the arm is slowly lowered back to the starting position. This exercise is repeated several times, gradually increasing the height reached.

2. Touching the Opposite Shoulder: With the affected shoulder elevated to touch the head, the elbow is slowly rotated forward and then toward the same side while keeping the palm in contact with the head. When pain arises in the affected shoulder at a certain angle, the position is held for 30 seconds to one minute; the pain typically subsides spontaneously.

3. Reaching Behind to Touch the Spine: While reaching backward to touch the spine with the affected hand, the forearm and upper back remain in close contact. The back of the hand is moved as far across the back toward the opposite side as possible. Upon reaching a certain height, pain may occur in the affected shoulder; hold this position for 30 seconds to one minute—pain usually diminishes spontaneously.

In summary, adhesive capsulitis is not an intractable condition; symptoms can be relieved rapidly through appropriate treatment and scientifically guided self-care. However, because the direction and degree of shoulder joint restriction vary among individuals, patients should perform these exercises only under the supervision and guidance of a healthcare professional to avoid injury caused by improper technique.