This randomized controlled, single-blind, quasi-experimental study primarily aims to investigate the effects of unilateral resistance exercise applied without directly loading the affected shoulder on muscle strength and upper extremity function in individuals with frozen shoulder. Additionally, the study seeks to examine the effects on joint range of motion, quality of life, and activities of daily living. The study will be conducted among individuals diagnosed with frozen shoulder at the Physiotherapy and Rehabilitation Outpatient Clinic of Malatya Battalgazi State Hospital. The data collection process is planned to be completed between February 2026 and December 2026.
Participants will be selected from the relevant population using a non-probability convenience sampling method. Individuals meeting the inclusion criteria will be enrolled after providing written informed consent. The study will be carried out in accordance with the principles of the Declaration of Helsinki. Participants will be randomly assigned to either the control or intervention group.
The study will include individuals aged 18-65 years with a diagnosis of unilateral primary or secondary frozen shoulder, presenting with more than 50% restriction in at least one of the following shoulder movements compared to the unaffected side: external rotation, abduction, or flexion, and with more than 30% limitation in joint range of motion in at least two movement planes.
Individuals with concomitant shoulder trauma (e.g., rotator cuff injury), bilateral shoulder involvement, acromioclavicular joint osteoarthritis, prior treatment for frozen shoulder, psychiatric disorders that may affect compliance with medical or physical therapy interventions, concomitant neurological conditions, or a Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE) score below 24 will be excluded from the study.
Having a diagnosis of unilateral primary or secondary frozen shoulder.
Range of motion in external rotation, abduction, or flexion reduced by less than 50% in at least one of these directions compared to the unaffected shoulder.
Loss of joint range of motion exceeding 30% in at least two movement planes compared to the unaffected shoulder.
Aged between 18 and 65 years.
Presence of a concomitant shoulder injury (e.g., rotator cuff tear).
Osteoarthritis in both shoulders or in the acromioclavicular joint.
Previous treatment for frozen shoulder.
Psychiatric disorders that may interfere with adherence to medical or physical therapy.