What Is a Frozen Shoulder and What Causes It?

What Is a Frozen Shoulder?

Frozen shoulder, also called adhesive capsulitis, is a condition that causes pain and stiffness in the shoulder joint. Over time, the shoulder becomes hard to move. Many people notice that daily tasks, like reaching overhead or behind their back, become difficult. This problem often develops slowly, but it can last for months or even years. Early treatment can help reduce pain and improve movement. If you are searching for frozen shoulder treatment in your area, it is important to know the basics first.

Symptoms of Frozen Shoulder

Frozen shoulder symptoms usually start with mild pain. However, the pain can get worse over time. Common signs include:

Constant pain in the shoulder, even at rest

Stiffness that makes it hard to move the arm

Difficulty sleeping due to shoulder pain

Limited range of motion, such as trouble reaching up or behind

As the condition progresses, the pain may lessen, but stiffness often remains. Eventually, movement may slowly return, but this can take a long time.

Causes and Risk Factors

Doctors do not know the exact cause of frozen shoulder. Still, it happens when the tissue around the shoulder joint becomes thick and tight. This tissue is called the capsule. When it tightens, movement is limited. Several factors can increase your risk:

Age over 40 years

Being female

Shoulder injury or surgery

Diabetes or thyroid problems

Long periods of shoulder immobility

For example, people who wear a sling after an injury may develop frozen shoulder. In addition, certain health conditions, like diabetes, make it more likely.

Diagnosis

Doctors diagnose frozen shoulder by asking about your symptoms and examining your shoulder. They may check how far you can move your arm. Sometimes, they use X-rays or MRI scans to rule out other shoulder pain causes, such as arthritis or a torn rotator cuff. However, these tests are not always needed. Early diagnosis helps start the right treatment sooner.

Treatment Options

Treating frozen shoulder often takes time, but most people get better with simple steps. Common adhesive capsulitis treatments include:

Physical therapy to stretch and strengthen the shoulder

Pain relief medicines, such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen

Hot or cold packs to reduce pain and swelling

Corticosteroid injections to decrease inflammation

In rare cases, surgery to release the tight capsule

Most people improve with exercise and time. However, some may need more advanced treatments if pain and stiffness do not improve.

Prevention and Self-Care Tips

While you cannot always prevent frozen shoulder, some steps can lower your risk. Try these tips:

Keep your shoulder moving after an injury, if your doctor says it is safe

Do gentle stretches every day

Follow your doctor’s advice after surgery or injury

Manage health conditions, like diabetes, to reduce risk

Above all, staying active and moving your shoulder can help prevent stiffness. If you notice pain or trouble moving your arm, talk to your doctor early.

When to See a Doctor

If you have shoulder pain that does not improve, or if you cannot move your arm, see a doctor. Early care can help prevent long-term problems. In addition, if you have other symptoms like swelling, redness, or fever, seek medical help right away. These signs could mean a different problem that needs quick treatment.

Frozen shoulder can be frustrating, but help is available. Consult an orthopedic specialist for personalized advice on frozen shoulder.