Adhesive Capsulitis (Frozen Shoulder)

Adhesive capsulitis, or frozen shoulder, is a long-term condition that causes pain and limited movement in the shoulder. It is defined by three stages: the freezing stage, characterized by a loss of motion; the frozen stage, which involves ongoing stiffness; and the thawing stage, which involves decreasing pain and improving mobility.

Frozen shoulder is more common in people over 40 and women, and can be caused by an event such as a fall or surgery or by a preexisting condition such as rotator cuff strain or bursitis. It is also more common in people with diabetes or thyroid disease.

While no single treatment can immediately cure frozen shoulder, our office can manage the condition through hands-on care and exercise. Applying ice, heat, or sports creams to the shoulder at home may help. It is important to be patient with your recovery, as it can take several months for some patients to regain function, and a minority of patients may experience permanent stiffness.