What is Frozen Shoulder?

Frozen shoulder, also called adhesive capsulitis, is a condition that causes pain and stiffness in the shoulder joint. Over time, the shoulder becomes hard to move. Many people notice that daily tasks, like reaching overhead or behind their back, become difficult. Because frozen shoulder can last for months or even years, early care is important. According to the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, this condition affects about 2% of the general population.

Common Symptoms

Frozen shoulder symptoms often develop slowly. At first, you may only feel mild pain. However, as the condition worsens, you might notice:

Constant shoulder pain, especially at night

Stiffness that makes it hard to move your arm

Limited range of motion in the shoulder

Pain that gets worse with movement

Sometimes, the pain can spread down the arm. But, the main problem is usually the loss of movement. Because these symptoms can last for a long time, it is important to seek help early.

Main Causes and Risk Factors

Doctors are not always sure what causes frozen shoulder. However, certain factors can raise your risk. For example, you may be more likely to get frozen shoulder if you:

Are between 40 and 60 years old

Are female

Have diabetes or thyroid problems

Have had a shoulder injury or surgery

Keep your shoulder still for a long time

In some cases, frozen shoulder develops after an injury. But, it can also happen without any clear reason. Because some health conditions increase risk, managing them can help prevent frozen shoulder.

How Frozen Shoulder is Diagnosed

Doctors diagnose frozen shoulder by asking about your symptoms and checking your shoulder movement. Usually, they will:

Ask about your pain and when it started

Test how far you can move your arm

Check for other causes of shoulder pain

Sometimes, your doctor may order X-rays or an MRI. These tests help rule out other problems, like arthritis or a torn rotator cuff. However, frozen shoulder is mainly diagnosed based on your symptoms and a physical exam.

Treatment Options

There are several frozen shoulder treatment options. Early treatment can help reduce pain and improve movement. Common treatments include:

Physical therapy to stretch and strengthen the shoulder

Pain relievers, such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen

Heat or cold packs to ease pain

Corticosteroid injections to reduce swelling

Gentle exercises at home

Most people get better with these treatments. However, in rare cases, surgery may be needed to release the tight tissue. According to the CDC, most people recover within 1 to 3 years.

Tips for Managing and Preventing Frozen Shoulder

Managing frozen shoulder at home can help speed up recovery. Here are some helpful tips:

Keep moving your shoulder as much as possible

Do gentle stretching exercises every day

Use heat or ice packs to reduce pain

Follow your physical therapist’s advice

Take pain medicine as directed by your doctor

To prevent frozen shoulder, try to move your shoulder after an injury or surgery. If you have diabetes or thyroid problems, managing these conditions can also help lower your risk.

When to See an Orthopedic Specialist

If you have shoulder pain that does not improve, it is important to see a doctor. You should also seek help if:

Your shoulder becomes very stiff

Pain keeps you from sleeping

You cannot do daily tasks

Treatment at home is not helping

Early care from an orthopedic specialist can help you recover faster. They can suggest the best frozen shoulder treatment for your needs.

For personalized advice on frozen shoulder, consult an orthopedic specialist today.