Over all of my years teaching yoga, and previously of training in the fitness industry, I have found shoulder issues to be second only to back issues when it comes to the number of sufferers.
Shoulder issues are varied. Their causes and effects are different, and so are their treatments.
Today, we'll focus upon frozen shoulder.
Over the years I've noticed that yoga has been one of the most effective tools in dealing with shoulder issues (frozen shoulder or not).
Partially because yoga tends to endow students with a renewed awareness of body mechanics, but also because yoga tends to promote a kinder, gentler manner of approaching pain and rehabilitation than many other forms of body work.
Frozen shoulder affects about two per cent of the general population. It is characterized by a progressive onset of shoulder joint stiffness, loss of range of motion and often accompanied by considerable pain. Not really anyone's cup of tea.
The problem usually occurs between the ages of 40 and 60 years, with 70 per cent of all cases occurring in women. Oddly enough, the non-dominant shoulder is usually more affected.
It may be caused by minor injuries left untreated or by immobilization of the shoulder for a period of time (such as might occur when setting a badly broken arm).
In the initial stages, pain may occur during activity, as well as at rest. Sleeping tends to become increasingly difficult, as finding a comfortable resting position for the shoulder becomes more and more challenging.
As the pain progresses, sufferers begin to lose significant range of motion while attempting to limit the pain.
The shoulder then becomes 'frozen' into this limited range of motion.
The good news?
Frozen shoulder is treatable and a full range of pain-free motion can be regained.
The most effective time for rehabilitation is six months after the initial problem occurs. To treat the issue, one must strengthen the internal and external shoulder muscles while placing emphasis upon gradual and consistent flexibility work... the prime domain of yoga.
Here I would highly recommend seeking the counsel of a certified and experienced yoga teacher.
For just as correct application of appropriate yoga poses can rehabilitate a frozen shoulder, incorrect or inappropriate poses can hinder the process – even worsen the condition.
When working with a frozen shoulder, there is one other important thing to remember. Do not be overly aggressive in your treatment.
Take your time, practice your poses and your body will respond.
One final word on frozen shoulder. Even if you've completely missed the six-month treatment mark, it's never too late.
Five years ago, I met a student whose shoulder had been frozen for more than 20 years. We began work on it using only yoga.
Two years later, his range of motion, although not completely restored, is 80 per cent improved.
His greatest joy?
Finally, after all this time, having a pain-free golf-swing.