What Is a Frozen Shoulder?

Frozen shoulder, also called adhesive capsulitis, is a condition that causes pain and stiffness in the shoulder. Over time, the shoulder becomes very hard to move. In many cases, frozen shoulder develops slowly and can last for months or even years. Although it is common in adults between ages 40 and 60, anyone can get it. The main problem is that the tissue around the shoulder joint thickens and tightens. As a result, movement becomes limited and painful. According to the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, frozen shoulder affects about 2% of the general population.

Symptoms of Frozen Shoulder

Frozen shoulder symptoms usually start slowly. However, they often get worse over time. The main signs include:

Shoulder pain, especially when moving the arm

Stiffness that makes it hard to lift or rotate the arm

Difficulty sleeping due to shoulder discomfort

Limited range of motion in the shoulder

At first, pain may be mild. But as the condition progresses, stiffness increases. Eventually, even simple tasks like reaching for a shelf or combing hair can become difficult. In some cases, pain may lessen, but stiffness remains.

Causes and Risk Factors

Doctors do not know the exact cause of frozen shoulder. Still, certain factors can increase your risk. For example, having a shoulder injury or surgery can lead to this problem. Sometimes, not moving the shoulder for a long time causes the joint to stiffen. Other risk factors include:

Age over 40 years

Being female

Diabetes or thyroid problems

Shoulder immobilization after injury or surgery

Other health conditions, such as heart disease or stroke

In addition, people with certain medical conditions may have a higher chance of developing frozen shoulder. According to the Mayo Clinic, diabetes increases the risk significantly.

Diagnosis: How Is Frozen Shoulder Identified?

Doctors diagnose frozen shoulder by asking about your symptoms and examining your shoulder. Usually, they check how far you can move your arm. Sometimes, they may order imaging tests, such as X-rays or MRI scans. These tests help rule out other causes of shoulder pain, like arthritis or a torn rotator cuff. However, frozen shoulder is mainly diagnosed based on your symptoms and physical exam.

Treatment Options for Frozen Shoulder

Most people recover from frozen shoulder with time and proper care. Treatment for frozen shoulder focuses on reducing pain and improving movement. Common options include:

Physical therapy to stretch and strengthen the shoulder

Pain relievers, such as acetaminophen or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)

Hot or cold packs to ease discomfort

Corticosteroid injections to reduce swelling

Shoulder exercises at home

In rare cases, surgery may be needed if other treatments do not help. For example, a doctor may gently move the shoulder while you are under anesthesia to loosen the joint. According to the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, most people improve with non-surgical treatments.

Prevention and Self-Care Tips

While you cannot always prevent frozen shoulder, you can lower your risk. Here are some helpful tips:

Keep your shoulder moving after an injury or surgery, as your doctor advises

Do gentle stretching exercises regularly

Follow your physical therapist’s instructions

Manage health conditions like diabetes

Seek medical help early if you notice shoulder pain or stiffness

With early care, you can often avoid severe stiffness and pain. Remember, staying active is important for shoulder health.

Conclusion

Frozen shoulder can be painful and limit your daily activities. However, with the right treatment and self-care, most people recover well. If you have shoulder pain or stiffness, consult Dr. Ahesan Shaikh for personalized advice on frozen shoulder.