Key Takeaways
- Frozen shoulder (adhesive capsulitis) causes progressive shoulder pain, stiffness, and loss of range of motion.
- The condition typically progresses through three stages—freezing, frozen, and thawing—and may last for months to years without proper care.
- Common causes include inflammation, prolonged immobilization, and underlying health conditions.
- Treatment focuses on reducing pain, restoring mobility, and preventing long-term stiffness through guided care.
- When surgical treatment is appropriate, Dr. Swanson incorporates Enovis-supported orthopedic technologies to enhance surgical planning and precision, supporting improved shoulder mobility and outcomes.
- Dr. Christopher Swanson, a double board-certified orthopedic surgeon, provides comprehensive frozen shoulder care, including physical therapy guidance, medications, advanced image-guided injections, and minimally invasive procedures when needed. Schedule an appointment to receive personalized treatment and restore shoulder function.
Understanding Frozen Shoulder (Adhesive Capsulitis)
Frozen shoulder occurs when the connective tissue capsule surrounding the shoulder joint becomes inflamed, thickened, and tight. This capsule normally allows the shoulder to move freely, but when it stiffens, movement becomes painful and restricted in all directions.
Unlike acute injuries, frozen shoulder often develops gradually. Pain and stiffness may worsen over time, making early evaluation important. Although the condition can sometimes resolve on its own, recovery is often prolonged without appropriate medical care.
Symptoms and Stages of Frozen Shoulder
Common Frozen Shoulder Symptoms
Frozen shoulder symptoms tend to progress slowly and may include:
- Persistent shoulder pain, often dull or aching
- Stiffness that limits arm movement in all directions
- Difficulty lifting the arm overhead or behind the back
- Pain that worsens at night or disrupts sleep
- Reduced ability to perform daily activities
Pain and stiffness often occur together, but the severity may change depending on the stage of the condition.
The Three Stages of Frozen Shoulder
Frozen shoulder typically develops in three distinct stages:
1. Freezing Stage
- Increasing pain with shoulder movement
- Gradual loss of range of motion
- Pain may worsen at night
- This stage can last several months
2. Frozen Stage
- Pain may decrease, but stiffness becomes severe
- Shoulder movement is significantly limited
- Daily tasks become increasingly difficult
- This stage may last several months to a year
3. Thawing Stage
- Gradual improvement in mobility
- Pain continues to lessen
- The range of motion slowly returns
- Full recovery may take months
Understanding these stages helps set realistic expectations for recovery and highlights the importance of professional care to prevent prolonged stiffness.
Common Causes and Risk Factors
What Causes Frozen Shoulder?
The exact cause of frozen shoulder is not always clear, but it is often linked to inflammation within the shoulder joint capsule. Factors that may contribute include:
- Prolonged shoulder immobilization after injury or surgery
- Shoulder trauma or overuse
- Inflammatory conditions affecting joint tissues
Risk Factors for Adhesive Capsulitis
Certain individuals are more likely to develop frozen shoulder, including:
- Adults over the age of 40
- Individuals with diabetes or thyroid disorders
- Those recovering from shoulder surgery or fractures
- People with limited shoulder movement due to pain or injury
Recognizing risk factors early allows for prompt evaluation and treatment, reducing the likelihood of long-term mobility loss.
How Frozen Shoulder Impacts Daily Life
Frozen shoulder can significantly affect the quality of life. As stiffness progresses, routine activities may become challenging, including:
- Reaching overhead or behind the back
- Dressing, bathing, or grooming
- Driving or fastening a seatbelt
- Sleeping comfortably on the affected side
- Lifting or carrying objects
Over time, limited shoulder use may also lead to muscle weakness and further functional decline. Addressing frozen shoulder early helps minimize these disruptions and supports a smoother recovery.
Frozen Shoulder Diagnosis
A proper diagnosis is essential for effective treatment. Frozen shoulder is typically diagnosed through a detailed medical history and physical examination.
What to Expect During Evaluation
Diagnosis may involve:
- Assessing active and passive range of motion
- Identifying pain patterns and stiffness
- Evaluating shoulder strength and function
Imaging studies such as X-rays or MRI may be used to rule out other shoulder conditions, including rotator cuff tears or arthritis, but frozen shoulder is primarily a clinical diagnosis.
Treatment Options for Frozen Shoulder
Treatment focuses on relieving pain, restoring movement, and preventing long-term stiffness. Dr. Christopher Swanson offers a comprehensive approach tailored to each stage of frozen shoulder.
Physical Therapy and Guided Rehabilitation
Physical therapy is a cornerstone of frozen shoulder treatment. A structured therapy program helps:
- Improve flexibility and range of motion
- Reduce stiffness safely
- Restore functional movement over time
Therapy programs are carefully guided to avoid aggravating pain while promoting gradual improvement.
Medications for Pain and Inflammation
Medications may be recommended to manage discomfort and inflammation, including:
- Anti-inflammatory medications
- Pain-relieving medications when appropriate
These treatments help reduce pain, allowing patients to participate more effectively in rehabilitation.
Advanced Injection Therapies
For patients with persistent symptoms, advanced injection treatments may be considered to reduce inflammation and improve mobility. Dr. Swanson offers image-guided injections to ensure precision and effectiveness.
Minimally Invasive Procedures
In cases where conservative care does not restore adequate movement, minimally invasive procedures such as arthroscopic capsular release may be recommended. This procedure releases tight portions of the joint capsule, helping restore range of motion while minimizing recovery time.
Each treatment plan is personalized based on symptom severity, stage of frozen shoulder, and individual goals.
When to Seek Professional Help
You should seek professional evaluation if you experience:
- Shoulder pain and stiffness lasting more than a few weeks
- Progressive loss of shoulder motion
- Pain that interferes with sleep or daily activities
- Difficulty performing routine tasks despite rest
Early diagnosis and treatment can shorten recovery time and prevent long-term mobility limitations.
Targeted Frozen Shoulder Care to Reduce Stiffness and Improve Motion
Frozen shoulder can significantly affect comfort, mobility, and quality of life, but effective treatment is available. Dr. Christopher Swanson provides expert evaluation and comprehensive frozen shoulder care, focusing on pain relief, restored movement, and long-term shoulder health.
If shoulder stiffness or pain is limiting your daily activities, schedule an appointment with Dr. Christopher Swanson to receive personalized care designed to help you move comfortably again.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is frozen shoulder?
Frozen shoulder, or adhesive capsulitis, is a condition in which the shoulder joint capsule thickens and tightens, leading to pain, stiffness, and reduced range of motion.
What are the early symptoms of frozen shoulder?
Early symptoms often include shoulder pain, especially with movement, and gradual stiffness that worsens over time.
How long does frozen shoulder last?
Frozen shoulder may last several months to years. With professional treatment, many patients experience improved recovery timelines and better outcomes.
How is frozen shoulder diagnosed?
Diagnosis is typically based on a physical exam assessing pain and limited movement. Imaging may be used to rule out other shoulder conditions.
What treatments are available for frozen shoulder?
Treatment options include physical therapy, medications, advanced injections, and minimally invasive procedures when necessary to restore mobility.
When should I see a specialist for frozen shoulder?
You should seek care if pain and stiffness persist, worsen, or interfere with daily activities. Early treatment helps prevent prolonged stiffness and mobility loss.
