Frozen shoulder is a condition where the shoulder joint becomes stiff, painful, and loses its range of motion. It happens when the capsule of connective tissue surrounding the shoulder joint thickens and tightens, restricting movement. It often comes on gradually and progresses through three phases, freezing, frozen, and thawing, over several months to years.

An analogy…

Think of the shoulder joint like a ziplock bag filled with water, normally, the bag moves freely as the shoulder moves. In frozen shoulder, that bag shrinks and stiffens, making it harder and more painful to move the shoulder.

What are other names that a frozen shoulder can be referred to?

Adhesive Capsulitis, Frozen Shoulder Syndrome

What causes a frozen shoulder?

The shoulder joint is surrounded by a capsule of connective tissue that helps keep it stable. In frozen shoulder, this capsule becomes inflamed and thickened, causing it to stick to itself and restrict movement. The exact cause isn’t always clear, but it often follows a period of immobility, such as after surgery, injury, or prolonged rest. It’s also more common in people with diabetes, thyroid issues, or autoimmune conditions.

What are the signs and symptoms of a frozen shoulder?

• Gradual onset of shoulder pain, especially at night
• Progressive loss of shoulder movement
• Stiffness in the joint, even with passive movement
• Pain that can be dull or aching, and located deep in the shoulder

What tests are used to diagnose a frozen shoulder?

Apley Scratch Test: This test checks shoulder mobility and flexibility. The patient is asked to reach one hand over the shoulder and down the back, and then reach the other hand up behind the back to try and touch the fingertips together.

Physical Examination: During a physical exam for frozen shoulder, the practitioner will assess both active (your own movement) and passive (practitioner-assisted) range of motion. In frozen shoulder, both types of movement are limited, especially when lifting the arm or rotating it outward. The practitioner will also check for muscle tightness, pain points, and joint stiffness to rule out other causes.

How long does a frozen shoulder take to heal?

Frozen shoulder usually resolves over time, but it can take 12 to 24 months depending on the severity and phase. Early treatment helps reduce the time it takes to recover, but some people may take longer if it’s not managed well or if there are underlying conditions like diabetes.

How does a frozen shoulder happen?

• Shoulder immobilisation
• Conditions like diabetes, thyroid dysfunction, or autoimmune disorders
• Poor shoulder posture and lack of mobility

What treatment can help a frozen shoulder?

• Manual therapy to gently mobilise the joint
• Stretching and mobility exercises
• Dry needling or trigger point therapy for surrounding muscle tension
• Corticosteroid injections

What exercises or stretches can I do for a frozen shoulder?

• Pendulum swings
• Wall climbs (flexion and abduction)
• Sleeper stretch
• Towel stretch behind the back
• Scapular setting and posture drills

What products can help with a frozen shoulder?

• Wheatbag
• Trigger Ball
• KT Pilates Band Pack