Frozen shoulder, also known as adhesive capsulitis, is a common yet frustrating condition that can significantly limit your mobility and quality of life. If you’re experiencing shoulder stiffness or pain that won’t go away, understanding what’s happening and how it can be treated is the first step toward relief.
What Is Frozen Shoulder?
Frozen shoulder is a general term used to describe a loss of motion in the shoulder joint. The most common cause is adhesive capsulitis, a condition that affects the shoulder’s joint capsule, a watertight sac that surrounds and lubricates the joint.
With adhesive capsulitis, the capsule becomes inflamed and thickened, leading to stiffness and restricted movement. Over time, fibrosis (scar tissue formation) develops, making it increasingly difficult to move the shoulder normally.
Who Is at Risk?
In many cases, the exact cause of frozen shoulder is unknown. However, certain factors may increase your risk:
- Women are more commonly affected than men
- Underlying health conditions such as diabetes, thyroid disease, or heart disease
- Periods of limited shoulder movement due to injury or surgery
That said, many people who develop frozen shoulder have no clear risk factors.
Common Causes of Frozen Shoulder
While the exact cause isn’t always identifiable, frozen shoulder often develops after a physical event or period of immobility.
Physical Injury
The shoulder is particularly vulnerable to injury. High-impact sports like football, hockey, and lacrosse can damage the tendons and structures within the joint. Even non-contact activities – such as tennis, golf, yard work, or heavy lifting – can lead to strains or sprains that contribute to frozen shoulder.
Prolonged Immobilization
After an injury, your shoulder may need to rest for weeks or months. During this time, the lack of movement can cause muscles and tendons to stiffen. Without proper rehabilitation exercises, this can lead to a frozen shoulder. Fortunately, these cases are often milder and may improve with guided stretching and physical therapy.
The Three Phases of Frozen Shoulder
Frozen shoulder typically progresses through three distinct stages:
Phase 1: Inflammatory (Pre-Freezing Phase)
- Shoulder pain is significant, even at rest
- Movement becomes painful, though not yet severely restricted
- Range of motion is limited primarily due to pain
- Common difficulty with reaching overhead or behind your back
This phase can last several months and is often the hardest to diagnose early.
Phase 2: Freezing Phase
- The shoulder becomes progressively stiffer
- True restriction in movement develops
- Pain may decrease but is still present at the end of motion
This phase typically lasts between 3 to 9 months.
Phase 3: Thawing Phase
- Gradual improvement in range of motion
- Pain continues to decrease
- Return to normal daily activities becomes possible
This final stage can last 1 to 2 years. In total, frozen shoulder may take 2 to 3 years—or longer—to fully resolve.
Treatment Options for Frozen Shoulder
Treatment focuses on reducing pain, improving mobility, and restoring function. Common approaches include:
Non-Surgical Treatments
- Anti-inflammatory medications to reduce pain and swelling
- Physical therapy to maintain and improve range of motion
- Targeted exercises and stretching to prevent further stiffness
Cortisone Injections
A cortisone injection into the shoulder joint can help reduce inflammation and, in some cases, slow or stop progression of the condition.
Surgical Treatment
If conservative treatments are not effective, an arthroscopic procedure may be recommended. This minimally invasive surgery helps break up scar tissue within the joint, improving mobility.
When to Seek Treatment
If you’re experiencing persistent shoulder pain, stiffness, or limited mobility that interferes with daily activities, it’s important to seek evaluation. Early diagnosis and treatment can help prevent progression and shorten recovery time.
