Frozen shoulder

What is frozen shoulder?

Frozen shoulder is a condition that leads to pain and stiffness of the shoulder. It is also known as adhesive capsulitis or shoulder contracture.

The symptoms tend to gradually get worse over a number of months or years. You will typically experience shoulder pain for the first two to nine months, followed by increasing stiffness.

The stiffness may affect your ability to carry out everyday activities and, in severe cases; you may not be able to move your shoulder at all.

The condition may improve with time, but this can sometimes take several years.

What causes frozen shoulder?

Frozen shoulder occurs when the flexible tissue that surrounds the shoulder joint, known as the capsule, becomes inflamed and thickened. It is not fully understood why this happens.

The following can increase your risk of developing a frozen shoulder:

·         a previous shoulder injury or shoulder surgery

·         diabetes

·         dupuytren’s contracture (a condition where small lumps of thickened tissue form in the hands and fingers)

·         other health conditions, such as heart disease

How frozen shoulder is treated?

Most people with frozen shoulder will eventually get better, even without treatment. However, appropriate treatment can help reduce pain and improve the movement in your shoulder until it heals.

The type of treatment you receive will depend on how severe your frozen shoulder is and how far it has progressed.

Painkillers, corticosteroid injections, shoulder exercises and physiotherapy are all possible treatment options. If your symptoms have not improved after six months, surgery may be recommended.