What Is Frozen Shoulder and Why Does It Cause Pain and Stiffness?

What is Frozen Shoulder?

Frozen shoulder, also called adhesive capsulitis, is a condition that makes your shoulder stiff and painful. In many cases, it becomes hard to move your arm. This problem often develops slowly, but it can last for months or even years. Because frozen shoulder can affect daily life, it is important to know the signs and ways to manage it.

Symptoms of Frozen Shoulder

At first, you may notice mild pain or stiffness in your shoulder. However, symptoms often get worse over time. Common signs include:

Shoulder pain, especially at night

Stiffness that makes it hard to move your arm

Difficulty reaching overhead or behind your back

Weakness in the shoulder

Usually, frozen shoulder develops in three stages:

Freezing stage: Pain increases and movement becomes harder.

Frozen stage: Pain may lessen, but stiffness stays.

Thawing stage: Movement slowly returns.

Although each stage can last several months, recovery is possible with the right care.

Causes and Risk Factors

Doctors do not know the exact cause of frozen shoulder. However, it often happens after an injury or surgery that keeps your arm still for a long time. In some cases, it can develop without a clear reason. Several risk factors can increase your chances of getting frozen shoulder:

Age over 40 years

Being female

Diabetes or thyroid problems

Shoulder injuries or surgery

Long periods of arm immobility

Heart disease or stroke

Because some health conditions raise your risk, it is important to manage them well.

Diagnosis

Doctors diagnose frozen shoulder by asking about your symptoms and checking your shoulder movement. Usually, they will:

Ask about your pain and when it started

Test how far you can move your arm

Check for swelling or tenderness

Sometimes, your doctor may order an X-ray or MRI. These tests help rule out other problems, such as arthritis or a torn tendon. However, most cases are diagnosed by a physical exam.

Treatment Options

Frozen shoulder treatment focuses on easing pain and improving movement. Most people get better with simple steps. Common treatments include:

Pain relief: Over-the-counter medicines like acetaminophen or ibuprofen

Physical therapy: Gentle exercises to stretch and strengthen the shoulder

Heat or cold packs: These can reduce pain and swelling

Corticosteroid injections: These may help with severe pain

In rare cases, surgery may be needed if other treatments do not work. However, most people recover without surgery.

Home Care and Lifestyle Tips

There are several things you can do at home to help your frozen shoulder heal. For example:

Apply a warm towel or heating pad to your shoulder

Do gentle stretching exercises as your doctor suggests

Rest your shoulder, but avoid keeping it still for too long

Use pain relievers as needed, but follow your doctor’s advice

Because recovery can take time, it is important to stay patient and keep up with your exercises. Many people find that small, daily efforts help speed up healing.

Prevention Strategies

While you cannot always prevent frozen shoulder, you can lower your risk. Try these tips:

Move your shoulder gently after any injury or surgery

Follow your doctor’s advice for physical therapy

Manage health conditions like diabetes and thyroid problems

Stay active and avoid long periods of immobility

Because early movement is key, do not ignore shoulder pain or stiffness. Early action can help prevent long-term problems.

When to See a Doctor

If you notice shoulder pain that does not improve, or if you cannot move your arm, it is time to see a doctor. In addition, seek help if:

Pain wakes you up at night

Your shoulder feels hot or swollen

You have a fever along with shoulder pain

Early treatment can help you recover faster and avoid complications.

Conclusion

Frozen shoulder can be painful and limit your daily life. However, with the right care and patience, most people recover fully. If you have symptoms of frozen shoulder, consult an orthopedic specialist for personalized advice and treatment options.