Blogs

5 Joint Mobilisation Techniques To Relieve Frozen Shoulder

Joey Lee Chiropractor Consult Sarah

May 15, 2025

profile photo of Jason Lee Chiropractor

Westside Sports Chiro

Frozen shoulder, clinically known as adhesive capsulitis, affects up to 5% of the general population and can drastically impact daily activities. This debilitating condition typically progresses through three distinct phases: freezing, frozen and thawing. While traditional treatment approaches often rely heavily on pain management and waiting out the natural course of the condition, specific joint mobilisation techniques have shown promising results in accelerating recovery and improving range of motion. Understanding these five evidence-based mobilisation techniques can provide practitioners and patients with effective strategies for addressing this challenging condition.

Glenohumeral Distraction Technique

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OU6-i4dKPKs

Glenohumeral distraction represents a fundamental joint mobilisation technique frequently employed in the treatment of frozen shoulder conditions. This therapeutic approach involves applying controlled distraction forces to the glenohumeral joint to enhance mobility and decrease pain associated with capsular restrictions.

The technique requires precise patient positioning, with the shoulder maintained at approximately 20 degrees of abduction, 20 degrees of horizontal adduction, and slight external rotation or neutral position. Accurate palpation of the greater and lesser tubercles of the proximal humerus guarantees ideal joint alignment during the procedure. The joint capsule can be effectively targeted through various directional forces, including posterior gliding, inferior glides, and multidirectional mobilisations.

For patients presenting with frozen shoulders, glenohumeral distraction techniques can be particularly beneficial in improving range of motion and reducing mechanical restrictions. The procedure is typically performed with the joint in its loose-packed position, allowing for maximum capsular stretch and enhanced therapeutic outcomes. The versatility of directional applications enables clinicians to target specific capsular restrictions based on individual patient presentations, making it an essential component in the thorough management of adhesive capsulitis and related shoulder pathologies. Similar to sacroiliac joint dysfunction, patients may experience clicking or popping sensations during the mobilisation procedure.

Caudal Glide Mobilisation

The caudal glide mobilisation technique serves as a critical intervention for addressing inferior capsular restrictions in patients with frozen shoulder conditions. This manual therapy approach specifically targets the inferior aspect of the shoulder joint capsule, facilitating improved shoulder abduction range of motion through sustained inferior glide of the humerus relative to the glenoid fossa.

The procedure is performed with precise positioning of the patient's shoulder joint in the loose pack position, approximately 20 degrees of abduction and external rotation. This positioning optimises the effectiveness of the inferior glide mobilisation while ensuring patient comfort and joint accessibility. During the technique, the therapist applies a controlled caudal force to create a sustained inferior translation of the humeral head, directly addressing capsular restrictions that limit normal glenohumeral arthrokinematics.

For patients presenting with frozen shoulder, this mobilisation technique is particularly beneficial when integrated into an extensive treatment approach. The caudal glide mobilisation, combined with both active and passive range of motion exercises, helps restore normal shoulder mobility by systematically addressing the inferior capsular restrictions that characteristically limit shoulder abduction in adhesive capsulitis cases. As part of a non-invasive approach, this technique aligns with chiropractic principles that focus on avoiding surgery and medications while promoting natural healing methods.

Posterior Joint Glides

While caudal mobilisations address inferior capsular restrictions, posterior joint glides offer a complementary approach for treating frozen shoulder by specifically targeting posterior capsular tightness. This technique involves the controlled mobilisation of the humeral head in a posterior direction, effectively lengthening the posterior capsule and facilitating improved shoulder mobility.

To perform posterior glides effectively, the patient is positioned with the glenohumeral joint in its loose-packed position, allowing for optimal joint mobilisation. The therapist applies sustained pressure to the humeral head in the posterior direction while maintaining proper joint alignment. This targeted approach helps restore normal arthrokinematics and improve shoulder flexion and abduction movements that are typically limited in frozen shoulder conditions.

The effectiveness of posterior glide mobilisations can be enhanced when integrated with other mobilisation techniques, particularly inferior glides. This exhaustive approach addresses multiple capsular restrictions simultaneously. Careful attention to proper positioning and technique guarantees isolated glenohumeral joint mobilisation, maximising the therapeutic benefit and helping patients progress toward full range of motion in their affected shoulder. Spinal adjustments techniques can complement shoulder mobilisation treatments by optimising overall nerve function and supporting natural healing processes.

Scapulothoracic Release

During frozen shoulder treatment, scapulothoracic release serves as a crucial complementary intervention that addresses restricted movement patterns between the scapula and thoracic wall. This technique specifically targets the restoration of normal biomechanical relationships between these structures, which often become compromised in patients with adhesive capsulitis.

The mobilisation procedure is typically performed with the patient positioned in side-lying, enabling optimal access for the practitioner to apply directed forces. Various techniques are implemented, including medial and lateral scapular glides, superior and inferior translations, and rotational movements to improve scapulothoracic mobility. These systematic mobilisations help normalise the gliding mechanics between the scapula and thoracic spine, which is essential for proper shoulder function.

When integrated with glenohumeral joint mobilisations, scapulothoracic release techniques can considerably enhance treatment outcomes for frozen shoulder patients. By addressing compensatory movement patterns and restricted scapular mobility, practitioners can facilitate improved range of motion at the glenohumeral joint. This complete approach recognises the interconnected nature of shoulder mechanics and guarantees that both primary and secondary movement dysfunctions are appropriately addressed during rehabilitation. Similar to ankle rehabilitation, practitioners typically recommend 3-12 treatment sessions based on the severity of the condition and individual patient needs.

External Rotation Progression

Progressing external rotation mobilisation requires a systematic approach that respects tissue tolerance and patient comfort levels. When initiating external rotation techniques, the physiotherapy practitioner should begin with gentle grade I and II mobilisations around the shoulder joint to promote pain relief and reduce protective muscle guarding.

As tissue compliance improves, practitioners can advance to grade III and IV mobilisations, focusing on end-range resistance points while monitoring the rotator cuff's response. The progression typically involves going from supported positions, such as supine with the arm at 30-45 degrees of abduction, to more challenging positions including seated and standing external rotation movements.

Each progression stage should incorporate oscillatory movements that gradually increase in amplitude and duration. Careful attention must be paid to scapular positioning and stabilisation throughout the movement sequence. When the patient demonstrates improved tolerance to manual therapy, self-mobilisation techniques can be introduced to complement in-clinic treatments. The end goal is to achieve functional external rotation range without compensatory movement patterns or excessive rotator cuff activation. Regular reassessment of capsular end-feel and pain responses guides the advancement through mobilisation grades. Integration with soft tissue therapy techniques can enhance treatment outcomes by addressing both joint mobility and muscle function simultaneously.

Conclusion

These five joint mobilisation techniques represent evidence-based interventions for addressing adhesive capsulitis. When applied systematically, these methods target specific anatomical restrictions within the glenohumeral complex and surrounding structures. The progressive nature of these mobilisations, from gentle distraction to more advanced external rotation techniques, provides clinicians with an extensive approach to restoring shoulder mobility and functional range of motion in patients with frozen shoulder.

Testimonials

Real Stories, Real
Results

Sarah T.
"I've been struggling with chronic shoulder pain for years, but after just a few sessions at Westside Sports Chiro, I've experienced a dramatic improvement. Their personalised approach and advanced techniques have truly made a difference in my recovery. I couldn't be happier with the results!"
Sarah T.

"I've been struggling with chronic shoulder pain for years, but after just a few sessions at Westside Sports Chiro, I've experienced a dramatic improvement. Their personalized approach and advanced techniques have truly made a difference in my recovery. I couldn't be happier with the results!"
mike li
Great knowledge and experience , Great job Jason!!Definitely will recommend
N “Neens” A
Wow! What an amazing experience! Dr Joey is absolutely brilliant! He was able to diagnose & treat a multitude of issues I have with my neck, back, shoulders & ankle. He was compassionate and understanding with all my concerns and I am forever grateful! There aren’t enough gold stars to show how amazing he is!
DJ NIKCO
I travel 2 hours each way every 2 weeks to see Jason and its worth it! He works with the whole body and is able to give detailed answers to all my questions. My injury was super complex as I have seen many specialists but no one has made any progress but now with jason I continue to see improvement each session! High Recommend.
Ralph
Good vibes as soon as you walk in,professional service,attention to details in adressing issues and providing plenty of explanation and a professional approach to move forward.muchly recommended 👍
Lyle Tacadena
Jason! He knows his stuff! I've had knee pain for months and with one treatment, the pain went from 90% to 10%. Hoping he can work his magic on the rest of the body. Amazing work and THANK YOU!
Shanny Ho
Thankyou Jason for your wealth of knowledge. I saw Jason as a new patient for a chronic issue I have had for quite a few years! It has stopped me from moving as much as I have in the past as the pain associated afterwards was always debilitating: tightness in the hips, pain on pressure on the heel of the foot. Just with the treatment provided in one session it feels better the day after with weight on the heel and my hip feels much more agile. Hopefully with the next couple of appointments I’ll be back to cycling and lifting !
Gordon Holloway
With my experience with Jason great personality very reliable and trustworthy he listens to your problems and I would recommend him to anyone. Thank you.
Ramzy Shublaq
Easily the best of the best in the business. I have been seeing Jason for over a year and he has helped me more than any other health practitioner. I am also a PT and currently refer a lot of my clients in to him, and they have all had glowing reviews and feedback. Thanks Jason ✌🏼
CHUNG-WEI TSAO
Thanks to Jason's treatment, I feel liberated after each session, and he also tells me how I can take care of myself, which is very useful , I wish I could meet him earlier.
Country life “Dragon” In Sydney
Jason is amazing i felt releif from a long time neck shoulder and foot pain from first session , he take his time treating his patients , very professional. i have been with my previous chiropractor for years spend too much money and i didn’t benefit , thank westside clinic for best service and treatment
Steve L
I had the pleasure of visiting Jason this past Saturday, and I must say, it was a fantastic experience. Jason is not only incredibly skilled but also honest and informative. I appreciated how he took the time to explain everything clearly and made sure I understood the treatment plan. What impressed me most was Jason's dedication to his craft and his genuine concern for his patients' well-being. He didn't rush through the session; instead, he took the time to address my concerns and tailor the treatment to my specific needs. I purposely waited more than 24 hours before writing this review to let the effects of the session settle and to give an honest opinion after a workout. I can confidently say that I feel a significant improvement, and I am grateful for Jason's expertise. If you're looking for a chiropractor who combines skill with a caring attitude, I highly recommend Jason. Thank you, Jason, for a truly exceptional experience!
Raffi Omer
Dr Jason Lee the man with full knowledge and experience. Highly recommend this place. If don't want to drag your pain with continuous appointments please come and visit place your well see the difference in 2 sessions..
John
Jason addressed my neck and shoulder issue in just one session and is now making significant improvements to my lower back. His expertise is evident, and I highly recommend him.
Jason Fong

Have been visiting Jason at Westside Sports Chiropractic for several months now and am really impressed with his thorough assessment and treatment. He takes the time to understand the root cause and focuses on correcting that, not just a short term fix. I've seen a lot of improvement in my condition so far. Would highly recommend.

Tim Booth

Jason is fantastic. He knows his stuff and every issue I have brought to him has been solved with a logical approach and with confidence.I wish I had found him much sooner then I did.Highly recommended.

Travelling Soldier

Jason is a wholistic health professional. Saw him for a long standing shoulder pain. Clear ultrasounds and x-rays. He accurately diagnosed the underlying cause and offered rapid yet sustainable relief in just one session. Now looking at rehab with him in the on-site gym and continue to strength and conditioning long term. Glad I called in !

Oscar Marulanda

I’ve been in treatment with Jason for over a year. I went with a back injury and Jason basically “fixed” me. Along the way, he has provided guidance and advice about how to improve my back.Recently, I have sessions with Joey. His skills and experience are aligned with Jason’s which made you feel comfortable that either one of them is equally doing the best for you.I’ve recommended Jason to my mum, brother and brother-in-law. They all agree that Jason has miracle hands.

Daniel Eishou

Iv had 2 sessions with Jason, iv had neck/shoulder a shoulder issue for years now. He has no joke found the issue given me things to work on and only after 2 sessions it actually feels it's getting better. Very knowledgeable and the session is worth it.

Sarah T.

"I've been struggling with chronic shoulder pain for years, but after just a few sessions at Westside Sports Chiro, I've experienced a dramatic improvement. Their personalized approach and advanced techniques have truly made a difference in my recovery. I couldn't be happier with the results!"

John Lee

"I've been struggling with chronic shoulder pain for years, but after just a few sessions at Westside Sports Chiro, I've experienced a dramatic improvement. Their personalized approach and advanced techniques have truly made a difference in my recovery. I couldn't be happier with the results!"

get started

Need Chiropractic Services? Book Now!

Ready to experience the benefits of expert chiropractic care at Westside Sports Chiro? Don't wait any longer – schedule your appointment today and take the first step towards a healthier, happier you.

Contact Us

Let’s Get in Touch

Have a question or need assistance? Fill out the form below, and we'll get back to you as soon as possible.

Fill out the form

We will contact you as soon as possible

Thank you! Your submission has been received!
Oops! Something went wrong while submitting the form.