Frozen Shoulder: Shoulder Stiffness and Immobility

What is frozen shoulder?

Frozen shoulder, or adhesive capsulitis, is a condition that creates pain and stiffness in the shoulder joint — severely limiting your ability to move your shoulder normally. When this happens, your shoulder feels like it is "frozen" in place. You probably will have difficulty raising your arm in front of you or putting your hand behind your head or back.

Frozen shoulder occurs when there is a problem with the capsule (def.) that surrounds your shoulder joint. Sometimes the capsule thickens or decreases in size, restricting the joint.

The result is a lack of mobility and severe pain.

What causes frozen shoulder? Who is at risk?

Frozen shoulder may be the result of inflammation after a shoulder injury or shoulder surgery. In most cases, however, frozen shoulder develops for no apparent reason in individuals over age 40. It's also more likely to appear in women. Those with diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, heart or lung disease, stroke or thyroid problems also are at higher risk for frozen shoulder.

What are the symptoms of frozen shoulder?

The pain of frozen shoulder is accompanied by loss of motion or stiffness. This may cause you to severely restrict your movement. The symptoms usually develop gradually over weeks or months. You may find that:

Pain is most severe during the early stages of the condition.
Pain is usually worse at night.
As pain decreases, stiffness and immobility increase.
Pain may travel from the shoulder down to the elbow.
A "thawing phase" occurs, during which time the condition may improve on its own.

How is frozen shoulder diagnosed and treated?

Your doctor usually can diagnose frozen shoulder after a physical examination and medical history. Since pain is a common symptom of most shoulder problems, other diagnoses including tendinitis, bursitis or rotator cuff tears will need to be ruled out.

Treatment options will focus on restoring your mobility and reducing pain. They may include pain medications and physical therapy to learn simple stretching exercises. You also may benefit from TENS (def.) stimulation to help reduce pain.

In some cases there may be ongoing limitations to motion, but you should be able to perform most of your daily activities. Surgery is rarely necessary, but may be beneficial if mobility doesn't sufficiently improve.

Prepare for your doctor visit with the Symptoms Checklist

What can I expect long-term?

Frozen shoulder almost always resolves by itself. However, it may take many months or even up to three years for the pain and stiffness to go away completely. NSAIDS (def.) and heat applied to the affected area may help while your shoulder heals. Your doctor will advise you on follow-up visits.

While recovering, you may want to avoid shoulder motions or positions that are painful. This may include motions that raise the arm to the side or rotate it outward such as reaching overhead or behind you, opening a heavy door and handling a steering wheel. Experts do not suggest "working through the pain" when you have a frozen shoulder — instead contact your doctor for advice.

Shortcuts

What is frozen shoulder?
What causes frozen shoulder? Who is at risk?
What are the symptoms of frozen shoulder?
How is frozen shoulder diagnosed and treated?
What can I expect long-term?

Did You Know?

The progressive immobility that occurs with this condition led to the term "frozen shoulder."

Don't Wait!

Shoulder pain can be symptomatic of many illnesses or diseases. Consult a physician immediately if:

Your shoulder pain is accompanied by chest pain, nausea or shortness of breath.

Your shoulder pain is a result of an accident, fall or other injury.

Your pain lasts more than 7 to 10 days.

Your pain is becoming more severe.

You have questions or concerns about your shoulder pain.