What Is A Frozen Shoulder?

Causes and Symptoms of Frozen Shoulder

The cause of frozen shoulder is unknown, but it probably involves an underlying inflammatory process. The capsule surrounding the shoulder joint thickens and contracts. This leaves less space for the upper arm bone (humerus) to move around. Frozen shoulder can also develop after a prolonged immobilization because of trauma or surgery to the joint. Usually only one shoulder is affected, although in some cases motion may be limited in both arms.

Frozen shoulder develops slowly, and in three stages:

• Stage One: Pain increases with movement and is often worse at night. There is a progressive loss of motion with increasing pain. This stage lasts approximately two to nine months.
• Stage Two: Pain begins to diminish, and moving the arm is more comfortable. However, the range of motion is now much more limited, as much as 50 percent less than in the other arm. This stage may last four to 12 months.
• Stage Three: The condition begins to resolve. Most patients experience a gradual restoration of motion over the next 12 to 42 months; surgery may be required to restore motion for some patients.

Treatment Options for Frozen Shoulder

Your physician will test the range of motion in your arm and may use an X-ray to rule out any underlying condition. Frozen Shoulder treatment is geared to relieving the discomfort and restoring motion and function to the shoulder.