Frozen shoulder
What is Frozen shoulder?
Frozen shoulder (adhesive capsulitis) is a common condition, especially among those aged 40–60. Recovery can take anywhere from several months to a few years. While the pain can be severe, most people recover with or without treatment.
Frozen shoulder is a condition where the shoulder capsule (the tissue around the shoulder joint) becomes painful and stiff.
This can lead to symptoms which may include:
- Pain that may radiate down the arm and disrupt sleep.
- Limited range of motion, making everyday tasks difficult.
- Stiffness that gradually worsens, then slowly improves over time.
The condition typically progresses in three stages:
- Pain – Often severe, lasting for months.
- Stiffness – Becomes the main issue as mobility decreases.
- Recovery – Stiffness gradually improves, but this can take 1–4 years.
Although rare, frozen shoulder may recur in the opposite shoulder in 6–17% of cases within 5 years.
Risk Factors
The exact cause is unknown, but it’s believed that the body responds to a minor injury by forming excess scar tissue in the shoulder capsule. Factors that may increase the risk include:
- Age (most common in those aged 40–60)
- Diabetes or thyroid disorders
- Heart disease or previous cardiovascular events
- Obesity (especially abdominal fat around the middle)
- Smoking
- Prior shoulder injuries or surgery
- Having Dupuytren’s contracture (a hand condition)
Ask for an Urgent GP Appointment or Call 111 If:
- You have shoulder pain and feel generally unwell with a high temperature, or feel hot and shivery.
- You develop sudden and severe pain in both shoulders.
Call 999 or go to A+E if:
- You experience a sudden inability to lift your arm after an injury, such as a fall or following an epileptic fit.
- Your arm or shoulder has changed shape or is badly swollen.
3 FACTS ABOUT FROZEN SHOULDERS
Pain is not a sign that you are causing yourself harm. Using your arm and moving, as much as you can, will maintain mobility and improve recovery in the long run.
Lifestyle factors such as a healthy diet, sleep, physical and mental health all have an influence on pain and recovery.
Research has shown that there is no difference between physiotherapy and surgery in the long term for frozen shoulder. Fortunately, most people improve over time without needing invasive treatment.