What Is a Frozen Shoulder?

Frozen shoulder, also known as adhesive capsulitis, is a condition that causes pain and stiffness in the shoulder joint. Over time, the shoulder becomes very hard to move. In many cases, frozen shoulder develops slowly and can last for months or even years. Because the pain and stiffness can limit daily activities, it is important to understand this condition. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), frozen shoulder affects about 2% to 5% of the general population.

Common Causes of Frozen Shoulder

There are several reasons why someone might develop a frozen shoulder. Sometimes, the exact cause is not clear. However, certain factors can increase the risk:

Shoulder injury or surgery, which can limit movement

Long periods of shoulder immobility, such as after a stroke

Medical conditions like diabetes or thyroid problems

Age, especially between 40 and 60 years old

More common in women than men

For example, if you keep your arm still for too long, scar tissue may form. This makes the shoulder joint tighter and harder to move.

Key Symptoms to Watch For

Frozen shoulder symptoms often start slowly. At first, you may notice mild pain. Over time, the pain can get worse, and movement becomes more limited. Key symptoms include:

Constant pain in the shoulder, even at rest

Stiffness that makes it hard to move your arm

Difficulty with daily tasks, such as reaching overhead

Worse pain at night, which can disturb sleep

As the condition progresses, the pain may decrease, but stiffness can remain. Eventually, movement may slowly return, but it can take a long time.

How Frozen Shoulder Is Diagnosed

Doctors diagnose frozen shoulder by asking about your symptoms and doing a physical exam. They will check how far you can move your arm in different directions. Sometimes, they may order tests to rule out other problems. These tests can include:

X-rays to check for arthritis or bone issues

MRI or ultrasound to look at soft tissues

However, most cases are diagnosed based on your history and how your shoulder moves. Early diagnosis helps start treatment sooner.

Effective Treatment Options

There are many ways to treat frozen shoulder. The main goal is to reduce pain and improve movement. Treatment options include:

Physiotherapy for frozen shoulder, which uses gentle exercises to stretch and strengthen the shoulder

Pain relief with medicines like acetaminophen or non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)

Applying heat or cold packs to ease pain

Corticosteroid injections to reduce swelling

In rare cases, surgery to release tight tissues

Most people improve with regular physiotherapy and home exercises. According to the CDC, early movement is key for recovery.

Tips for Prevention and Home Care

While not all cases can be prevented, you can lower your risk with some simple steps. Here are helpful tips on how to prevent frozen shoulder and care for it at home:

Keep your shoulder moving after any injury or surgery, as advised by your doctor

Do gentle stretching exercises daily

Use good posture to avoid extra strain

Apply heat or cold packs to manage pain at home

Follow your physiotherapist’s advice closely

For example, even small movements can help keep your shoulder flexible. If you feel pain, stop and rest.

When to See a Physiotherapist

It is important to seek help if you notice shoulder pain or stiffness that does not improve. You should see a physiotherapist if:

Pain lasts more than a few weeks

Movement becomes more limited over time

Home care does not help

You have trouble with daily tasks

Early treatment can prevent the condition from getting worse. A physiotherapist can create a plan just for you and guide you through safe exercises.

In summary, frozen shoulder can be painful and limit your daily life. However, with the right care, most people recover well. Consult a physiotherapist for personalized advice on managing frozen shoulder.