Frozen Shoulder: Causes, Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Treatment

What is Frozen Shoulder?

Frozen shoulder, also called adhesive capsulitis, is a condition that causes pain and stiffness in the shoulder joint. Because of this, moving your arm can become very hard. Over time, the shoulder may become even more stiff. Although frozen shoulder can affect anyone, it is most common in people between 40 and 60 years old. Early treatment can help reduce pain and improve movement.

Common Causes of Frozen Shoulder

Many factors can lead to frozen shoulder. Sometimes, the exact cause is unknown. However, certain situations increase your risk. For example, you may develop frozen shoulder after an injury or surgery. In addition, some health conditions make it more likely.

Shoulder injury or surgery

Long periods of shoulder immobility

Diabetes or thyroid problems

Stroke or heart disease

Age (most common in people over 40)

Women are affected more often than men

Because these factors can increase risk, it is important to keep your shoulder moving when possible.

Recognizing Symptoms

Frozen shoulder develops slowly. Usually, symptoms appear in three stages. First, you may notice mild pain and stiffness. Then, movement becomes harder. Finally, the pain may ease, but stiffness can remain. Knowing these signs helps you seek help early.

Shoulder pain, especially at night

Stiffness that makes it hard to move your arm

Difficulty with daily tasks, like reaching overhead

Pain that worsens with movement

Gradual loss of shoulder movement

Because symptoms can last for months, early care is important.

How Frozen Shoulder is Diagnosed

Doctors use several steps to diagnose frozen shoulder. First, they ask about your symptoms and health history. Next, they examine your shoulder to check movement and pain. Sometimes, doctors order tests to rule out other problems. For example, an X-ray or MRI may be used. These tests help make sure there is no other cause for your pain, such as arthritis.

With a clear diagnosis, your doctor can suggest the best treatment for you.

Treatment Options

There are many ways to treat frozen shoulder. Most people get better with simple treatments. However, recovery can take several months. Early treatment helps reduce pain and restore movement.

Physical therapy to stretch and strengthen the shoulder

Pain relief with medications like acetaminophen or ibuprofen

Hot or cold packs to ease discomfort

Corticosteroid injections to reduce swelling

Rarely, surgery may be needed if other treatments fail

Because each person is different, your doctor will create a plan that fits your needs.

Tips for Managing and Preventing Frozen Shoulder

Managing frozen shoulder at home can help speed up recovery. In addition, some steps may prevent it from coming back. Here are some helpful tips:

Keep your shoulder moving with gentle exercises

Follow your physical therapist’s advice

Apply heat or cold packs as needed

Take pain medicine only as directed

Do not force painful movements

Stay active to keep your joints healthy

Because early action can help, start exercises as soon as your doctor says it is safe.

When to See a Doctor

Although mild shoulder pain is common, you should see a doctor if:

Pain or stiffness lasts more than a few weeks

You cannot move your arm as usual

Pain keeps you from sleeping or daily tasks

Home treatments do not help

Because frozen shoulder can get worse without care, early treatment is best. Your doctor can help you find the right shoulder pain treatment and show you how to manage frozen shoulder safely.

For personalized advice on frozen shoulder, Consult an orthopedic specialist at The Elite Clinics for personalized care. Early treatment can make a big difference in your recovery and long-term shoulder movement.