Frozen shoulder: an introduction

Frozen shoulder or adhesive capsulitis is a painful condition in which the shoulder loses its range of movements. This condition is referred to as "frozen shoulder" because it becomes very difficult for a person to move his shoulder. The shoulder is not actually frozen, it is just stiff. It may follow an injury to the shoulder, but may also arise gradually without warning or injury.

Adhesive capsulitis causes scar tissue to form in the shoulder region. This may occur as a result of injury. Other conditions like tendonitis (inflammation or irritation of a tendon) and bursitis (inflammation or irritation of a bursa). If the shoulder has been immobilized for a long period of time, adhesive capsulitis could develop as a result.

The condition could also develop as a result of an autoimmune reaction. The body thinks it is under attack during an autoimmune reaction and will start to attack parts of itself causing an inflammatory reaction in the tissues. However, in most cases, the cause is unknown.

Symptoms of Frozen Shoulder

The condition is characterized by a decrease in motion, primarily seen in lifting the arm and turning it inwards. People usually experience

Pain as the first symptom of frozen shoulder, area shown in the below picture, followed by a loss of motion and a decrease in pain.

Frozen Shoulder Pain Information

Normally a gradual return of motion will follow; however, the length of time for recovery from frozen shoulder can be lengthy, with an average duration of between 16 and 20 months.