Darbhanga Central Hospital
Book An Appointment

What Is A Frozen Shoulder? Symptoms, Causes, and Treatment

Introduction

A frozen shoulder is a condition that makes your shoulder stiff and painful. Doctors call it adhesive capsulitis. This problem happens when the tissue around your shoulder joint becomes thick and tight. As a result, it gets hard to move your arm. Many people wonder about frozen shoulder symptoms and how to treat frozen shoulder. Understanding this condition can help you find relief and avoid more problems.

Symptoms

Frozen shoulder symptoms often start slowly. Over time, they get worse. However, knowing the signs can help you get help early. Common symptoms include:

  • Pain in the shoulder, especially at night
  • Stiffness that makes it hard to move your arm
  • Difficulty reaching overhead or behind your back
  • Weakness in the shoulder
  • Pain that gets worse with movement

    • At first, pain may be mild. But as the shoulder gets stiffer, moving your arm becomes harder. Eventually, the pain may lessen, but stiffness can remain.

    Causes & Risk Factors

    Doctors are not always sure what causes frozen shoulder. Still, some things can raise your risk. For example, it often happens after an injury or surgery that keeps your arm still for a long time. In addition, certain health problems can make frozen shoulder more likely. These include:

  • Diabetes
  • Thyroid problems
  • Heart disease
  • Stroke

    • Women over age 40 are more likely to get frozen shoulder. Also, people who have had shoulder surgery or injury are at higher risk. According to the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, about 2% to 5% of people may develop this condition.

    Diagnosis

    Doctors use several steps to diagnose frozen shoulder. First, they ask about your symptoms and health history. Next, they check how well you can move your arm. Sometimes, they may order tests like X-rays or MRI scans. These tests help rule out other problems, such as arthritis or a torn muscle. However, frozen shoulder is mostly diagnosed by your symptoms and a physical exam.

    Treatment Options

    There are many frozen shoulder treatment options. Most people get better with simple steps. For example, doctors may suggest:

  • Physical therapy: Gentle exercises help improve movement and reduce pain.
  • Medications: Pain relievers like acetaminophen or ibuprofen can help manage discomfort.
  • Heat or cold packs: These can ease pain and stiffness.
  • Injections: Sometimes, doctors inject medicine into the shoulder to reduce swelling.

    • In rare cases, surgery may be needed. Surgeons may loosen the tight tissue around the joint. However, most people recover without surgery. According to the Mayo Clinic, recovery can take several months to a few years.

    Prevention & Self-Care

    There are ways to lower your risk of frozen shoulder. For instance, if you have an injury or surgery, try to move your shoulder as soon as your doctor says it is safe. Other tips include:

  • Do gentle stretching exercises every day
  • Keep your shoulder moving, even with small movements
  • Use heat or cold packs to ease pain
  • Follow your doctor’s advice about activity

    • Staying active and following a healthy lifestyle can help prevent frozen shoulder. If you have diabetes or thyroid problems, managing these conditions may also lower your risk.

    When to See a Doctor

    If you notice shoulder pain or stiffness that does not improve, see a doctor. In addition, if you cannot move your arm or the pain wakes you at night, get medical help. Early treatment can prevent more problems and help you recover faster. Remember, only a doctor can diagnose and treat frozen shoulder properly.

    If you have symptoms of a frozen shoulder, consult an orthopedic specialist Dr. Hasib Kamali for personalized advice.