Body in Focus – Frozen Shoulder

Also known as adhesive capsulitis, Frozen Shoulder is a condition characterised by stiffness and pain in your shoulder joint. Signs and symptoms typically begin gradually, worsen over time and then resolve, usually within one to three years. The bones, ligaments and tendons that make up your shoulder joint are encased in a capsule of connective tissue. Frozen shoulder occurs when this capsule thickens and tightens around the shoulder joint, restricting its movement.

Doctors aren’t sure why this happens to some people, although it’s more likely to occur in people who have diabetes or those who recently had to immobilize their shoulder for a long period, such as after surgery or an arm fracture. People over the age of 40, particularly females, are more likely to have frozen shoulder.

• Pain: Maybe sharp and radiate into the whole arm. Can be present when resting and during movement.
• Loss of function: Activities such as eating, dressing, and driving can be challenging to carry out.
• Stiffness: Movement of the shoulder can be severely restricted.
• Sleep: Sleep may be disturbed when lying on the affected side of the shoulder or while changing the sleeping position.

How long does it last?

Frozen Shoulder typically presents in three stages, and can last anywhere from a few months to a couple of years:

1. Freezing Stage: The shoulder becomes increasingly painful, and you slowly lose range of motion. This usually occurs over 6 to 9 weeks.
2. Frozen Stage: This stage immediately follows the freezing stage and is usually less painful though the stiffness remains. This typically lasts roughly 4 to 6 months making daily activities very difficult.
3. Thawing Stage: This stage is where the shoulder slowly improves with either a complete return to normal or close to normal strength and motion. This usually takes anywhere from 6 months to 2 years to happen.

What treatment options are available?