Frozen shoulder, or adhesive capsulitis, is a condition that causes pain, stiffness, and limited range of motion in the shoulder joint. It typically develops gradually and progresses through three stages: freezing (painful and decreasing motion), frozen (stiff but less painful), and thawing (gradual improvement in mobility).
The exact cause of frozen shoulder is not always known, but it often occurs after an injury or as a result of prolonged immobility, diabetes, or thyroid conditions.
Treatment for frozen shoulder focuses on reducing pain and improving range of motion. In the early stages, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), physical therapy, and stretching exercises can help manage symptoms. Corticosteroid injections may be used to reduce inflammation and ease pain. Physical therapy plays a crucial role in restoring shoulder mobility by strengthening the muscles around the joint and improving flexibility.
If conservative treatments fail, more advanced procedures such as manipulation under anesthesia or arthroscopic surgery may be required to release the tight capsule around the shoulder joint. With proper treatment, most patients can fully recover from frozen shoulder, though it may take several months.
