What Is Frozen Shoulder?

Frozen shoulder, also called adhesive capsulitis, is a condition that causes pain and stiffness in the shoulder joint. As a result, moving your arm becomes hard. Over time, the shoulder may become very stiff. This makes daily tasks, like reaching or lifting, difficult. Although frozen shoulder can affect anyone, it is most common in people aged 40 to 60. According to the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, about 2% to 5% of people may develop this problem at some point.

Common Causes of Frozen Shoulder

Frozen shoulder happens when the tissue around the shoulder joint becomes thick and tight. This tissue is called the capsule. When it thickens, movement is limited. There are several reasons why this can happen. For example, an injury or surgery may cause you to stop moving your shoulder. Inactivity can lead to stiffness. Additionally, some health conditions increase the risk.

Shoulder injury or surgery

Diabetes

Thyroid problems

Heart disease

Long periods of shoulder immobility

Sometimes, the cause is not clear. However, keeping the shoulder still for too long often leads to frozen shoulder.

Recognizing Symptoms of Frozen Shoulder

Frozen shoulder usually develops slowly. There are three main stages. Each stage has its own symptoms. Knowing these can help you seek help early.

Freezing stage: Shoulder pain starts and gets worse. Movement becomes harder.

Frozen stage: Pain may lessen, but stiffness increases. Daily tasks become tough.

Thawing stage: Movement slowly returns. Pain fades away.

Other common signs include:

Shoulder stiffness

Sharp or dull pain in the shoulder

Trouble sleeping due to pain

Difficulty reaching overhead or behind your back

If you notice these symptoms, it is important to talk to a doctor.

How Is Frozen Shoulder Diagnosed?

Doctors diagnose frozen shoulder by asking about your symptoms and health history. They will also check your shoulder’s movement. During the exam, you may be asked to move your arm in different ways. Sometimes, doctors use imaging tests. For example, X-rays or MRI scans can rule out other problems, like arthritis or a torn rotator cuff. However, these tests are not always needed. The main goal is to find out if your pain and stiffness match frozen shoulder.

Treatment Options for Frozen Shoulder

There are several ways to treat frozen shoulder. Most people get better with simple treatments. Early care can help reduce pain and improve movement. Here are common options:

Physical therapy: Gentle exercises stretch the shoulder and improve movement.

Pain relief: Medicines like acetaminophen or ibuprofen can help manage pain.

Heat or cold packs: These can ease pain and relax muscles.

Corticosteroid injections: Doctors may use these to reduce swelling and pain.

Shoulder pain treatment: In rare cases, surgery may be needed to loosen the joint.

Most people recover within one to three years. However, sticking to your treatment plan is key. According to the CDC, early movement and therapy can speed up recovery.

Tips for Managing and Preventing Frozen Shoulder

Managing frozen shoulder at home is possible. With the right steps, you can ease symptoms and prevent future problems. Here are some helpful tips:

Start gentle shoulder exercises as advised by your doctor

Apply heat or cold packs to reduce pain

Take pain medicine only as directed

Keep moving your shoulder, but avoid sudden or forceful actions

Follow up with your doctor regularly

To prevent frozen shoulder, try to move your shoulder after an injury or surgery. Even small movements can help. If you have diabetes or other risk factors, talk to your doctor about ways to protect your shoulder.

When to See an Orthopedic Specialist

If your shoulder pain or stiffness does not improve, it is time to see an orthopedic specialist. Also, if pain wakes you at night or you cannot move your arm, seek help. Early treatment can prevent long-term problems. An orthopedic doctor can create a plan just for you. They may suggest new treatments if basic care does not work. Remember, getting help early leads to better results.

Consult an orthopedic specialist for personalized advice on frozen shoulder.