What Is Frozen Shoulder?
Frozen shoulder, which is also known as adhesive capsulitis, is a condition that causes pain, stiffness, and a gradual loss of movement in the shoulder joint. It develops when the capsule surrounding the shoulder becomes inflamed and thickened, restricting normal movement. It can be a slow and long process when dealing with a frozen shoulder but with the right treatment and exercises it should improve over time.
Who does frozen shoulder affect?
Frozen shoulder most commonly affects people between the ages of 40 and 60 and is more common in women than men. Factors which may put you at a slightly higher risk are; diabetes, thyroid disorders, recent shoulder surgery or an injury, kept shoulder still for a prolonged period (such as after a fracture or surgery), had a stroke or other neurological condition.
What Causes Frozen Shoulder?
The exact cause isn’t always clear. In many cases, it develops without any obvious injury. The condition occurs when the shoulder capsule becomes inflamed and tightens, forming scar tissue that limits movement. This can often make everyday activities such as reaching overhead, fastening a bra, putting on a coat, or reaching behind your back increasingly difficult.
Stages of Frozen Shoulder
1. Freezing Stage (Painful stage)
During the freezing stage there can be a gradual increase of shoulder pain. This pain is often worse at night with difficulty sleeping on the affected side. There will begin to be a progressive loss of shoulder movement during this stage. The freezing stage can last anywhere between 2 and 9 months.
2. Frozen Stage
During the frozen stage the pain will often begin to settle but stiffness will be the main issue here. The frozen stage includes significantly restricted shoulder movement, day to day activities may become more challenging and muscle weaknesses may begin to appear due to lack of use because of the restricted movement. The freezing stage can last between 4 to 12 months.
3. Thawing Stage
During the thawing stage the shoulder gradually begins to recover. Movement will slowly improve while pain continues to decrease. Strength and regular function of the shoulder will gradually return too. This stage of healing can take anywhere from 6 months to 2 years.
Common Symptoms for frozen shoulder include:
- Deep aching pain around the shoulder
- Pain that worsens at night
- Difficulty reaching overhead
- Problems reaching behind the back
- Reduced ability to lift or rotate the arm
- Stiffness that gradually becomes more severe
How Is Frozen Shoulder Diagnosed?
Frozen shoulder can be diagnosed through discussing symptoms and medical history, assessment of the shoulder including movement, strength and pain experienced. Sometimes imaging can be used to rule out any other conditions, but imaging isn’t always necessary.
How is Frozen shoulder treated?
Frozen shoulder can be treated with Sports Therapy or Physiotherapy. Treatment may include techniques such as massage and dry needling to encourage more mobility of the shoulder. Other treatment advised would include things such as stretching and mobility exercises, strength exercises when movement improves and advice on pain management. Exercises provided would be specific to the stage of the frozen shoulder and progress as the shoulder improves. Pushing the shoulder too much can sometimes make the symptoms worse.
Surgery
Surgery is rarely needed but may be considered if symptoms persist despite several months of conservative treatment.
Can Frozen Shoulder Be Prevented?
Not all cases can be prevented, but you can reduce your risk by keeping your shoulder moving after injury, when advised by a healthcare professional. Getting assessed early if shoulder pain and stiffness develop is crucial.
How Long Does Recovery Take?
Frozen shoulder often resolves naturally, but full recovery can take between 12 and 36 months. Some people recover more quickly, while others experience mild stiffness for longer. Early diagnosis and appropriate treatment can help reduce pain, improve function, and support a smoother recovery.
When Should You Seek Professional Help?
You should seek help when you’ve had Shoulder pain lasting more than a few weeks, increasing stiffness that limits daily activities, difficulty sleeping due to shoulder pain, or significant loss of shoulder movement. Having an accurate diagnosis is important because several shoulder conditions can produce similar symptoms.
Conclusion
Frozen shoulder can be a long and frustrating condition, but most people make a good recovery with patience, appropriate pain management, and guided rehabilitation. If you’re experiencing shoulder pain and stiffness, don’t ignore it. Early assessment can help identify the cause and ensure you receive the most appropriate treatment to keep you moving comfortably and confidently. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms or are worried you may have a shoulder injury, book yourself in for an appointment with myself or Jack as soon as possible.
Abi Wheatley, Sports Therapist