Understanding Frozen Shoulder and How to Treat It
January 7, 2026
Frozen shoulder, also known as adhesive capsulitis, is a painful and frustrating condition that can significantly limit shoulder movement and interfere with daily activities. Simple tasks such as reaching overhead, getting dressed, or sleeping comfortably can become difficult. Understanding what frozen shoulder is, why it develops, and how it is treated can help patients take an active role in recovery.
What Is Frozen Shoulder?
Frozen shoulder occurs when the connective tissue surrounding the shoulder joint becomes inflamed, thickened, and stiff. Over time, this leads to pain and a progressive loss of range of motion. The condition typically develops gradually and can last months—or even years—if left untreated.
Common Causes and Risk Factors
The exact cause of frozen shoulder is not always clear, but several factors increase risk, including:
- Shoulder injury or surgery that limits movement
- Prolonged immobilization
- Diabetes and other metabolic conditions
- Thyroid disorders
- Age (most common between 40 and 60)
- Higher prevalence in women
Reduced movement of the shoulder for any reason can allow stiffness to develop and worsen over time.
Stages of Frozen Shoulder
Frozen shoulder usually progresses through three stages:
- Freezing Stage – Increasing pain and gradual loss of motion
- Frozen Stage – Pain may stabilize, but stiffness becomes more severe
- Thawing Stage – Range of motion slowly improves
Each stage can last several months, making early intervention especially important.
Symptoms to Watch For
- Persistent shoulder pain
- Stiffness that limits arm movement
- Difficulty reaching overhead or behind the back
- Pain that worsens at night
Because these symptoms overlap with other shoulder conditions, proper evaluation is key.
Treatment Options for Frozen Shoulder
Treatment focuses on reducing pain, restoring movement, and preventing long-term stiffness. Options may include:
Conservative Care
- Activity modification
- Guided stretching and mobility exercises
- Physical therapy focused on gentle range-of-motion improvement
Pain Management
- Anti-inflammatory strategies
- Image-guided injections to reduce inflammation and discomfort
Advanced Interventions
- Hydrodilatation (joint distension)
- Minimally invasive procedures for severe or persistent cases
Most patients improve with non-surgical treatment, though recovery can take time.
Why Early Treatment Matters
Addressing frozen shoulder early can shorten recovery time and prevent prolonged stiffness. Delaying care may allow the joint capsule to tighten further, making treatment more challenging and extending symptoms.
When to Seek Professional Care
If shoulder pain and stiffness persist for more than a few weeks or worsen over time, evaluation by a pain or musculoskeletal specialist is recommended. A personalized treatment plan can help restore mobility while minimizing discomfort.
Final Thoughts
Frozen shoulder can be limiting, but it is treatable. With early diagnosis, appropriate therapy, and patience, most individuals regain function and return to daily activities with improved comfort and mobility.
