Frozen shoulder is a relatively common shoulder condition that affects approximately 2–5 percent of the population. The condition develops gradually with pain and increasing stiffness and can affect everyday life for a longer period before mobility gradually returns. Here you will get an overview of what frozen shoulder means, what symptoms are common, when you should seek care and what you can do yourself to relieve the symptoms and support recovery.
What is frozen shoulder?
Frozen shoulder means that the joint capsule around the shoulder joint becomes inflamed, thickened and contracted, leading to pain, stiffness and severely limited mobility. The condition usually develops in three phases: a pain phase, a stiffness phase and a recovery phase. The course can be long and take months to years for the condition to heal.
Common causes & risk factors
The cause is not always clear, but inflammation of the joint capsule is central. The condition is more common after shoulder injuries, diabetes or reduced mobility in the arm. It is most common between the ages of 40 and 60 and more women than men are affected. The symptoms often come on insidiously without a clear trigger.
Symptoms
The symptoms often begin with pain deep in the shoulder, especially when moving in an extreme position. Nighttime pain is common. After a while, the joint becomes increasingly stiff and everyday movements such as putting on a jacket, lifting an arm or reaching behind the back can become difficult. During the recovery phase, the pain subsides and mobility gradually improves.
When should you seek medical attention?
Seek medical attention if you have pain or stiffness in your shoulder, especially if it has lasted more than fourteen days. Early contact with, for example, a health center or physiotherapist is recommended to get a diagnosis, relieve pain, and prevent the condition from worsening.
Recommended protection & support
Heat can relieve pain in the early stages. Low-impact exercise programs and mobility exercises are important to maintain and gradually regain mobility. A shoulder brace can provide light support and relieve discomfort during activity. It is important to adapt exercise to the stage of the disease.
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About the Injury Guide – quick guidance in case of problems
In our Injury Guide you will receive clear and easy-to-understand information about common injuries, how they occur and what symptoms usually occur. You will also receive recommendations on which protection and aids can relieve your discomfort and help you further in your rehabilitation. All information is based on expert knowledge from our licensed physiotherapist.
For more information about shoulder problems, you can find more articles in the Shoulder Injury Guide and you can also go to the Injury Guide's main page to read about other injuries and symptoms.
Related injuries:
Shoulder pain
Shoulder dislocation
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