Frozen Shoulder (Adhesive Capsulitis)

What is frozen shoulder?

A joint capsule is a fibrous envelope surrounding a joint. Adhesive capsulitis (also called “frozen shoulder”) is an inflammatory condition that affects the shoulder’s joint capsule. Symptoms of frozen shoulder generally occur in three phases. First, there is a painful phase, during which pain is constant and predominant. Next comes the stiffening phase, which causes a progressive loss of shoulder mobility and stiffness. Finally, there is a resolution phase, characterized by the gradual recovery of range of motion. Symptoms across these three phases can last up to 18 months before fully resolving.

 

Causes of frozen shoulder

Approximately 2% of the population will experience frozen shoulder, and several risk factors are linked to its development. These include diabetes, high blood pressure, and age. Frozen shoulder can also develop following shoulder trauma (such as a fall or surgery), prolonged immobilization, or periods of psychological stress. Women aged 40 to 65 are at higher risk. However, in more than half of cases, the exact cause of frozen shoulder cannot be identified.

 

Treatment of frozen shoulder

Frozen shoulder can be very debilitating and painful. If you experience symptoms such as pain and loss of mobility, a physiotherapy evaluation is recommended. Physiotherapy treatments combined with home exercises have been shown to effectively reduce pain and improve joint range of motion and function. A physiotherapist can assess movement restrictions related to frozen shoulder and prescribe appropriate exercises, including stretching, mobility exercises, and strengthening. They can also provide guidance on pain management.

Medical interventions may also be combined with physiotherapy for treating frozen shoulder. Distension arthrography is a procedure in which a solution containing saline, corticosteroids, and a local anesthetic is injected into the shoulder joint capsule. It is then recommended to see a physiotherapist within 4 hours of the injection to perform early mobilization and maximize the benefits of the procedure.

Would you like to meet a specialist?

Book an appointment