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.)NSAIDs (Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs) These medications help reduce pain, fever and inflammation. and heat applied to the affected area may help while your shoulder heals. Your doctor will advise you on follow-up visits.

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.

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

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.

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.)Shoulder Capsule This sac encloses and supports the shoulder joint. It is also called the articular capsule. that surrounds your shoulder joint. Sometimes the capsule thickens or decreases in size, restricting the joint.