WHAT IS FROZEN SHOULDER? Frozen Shoulder” occurs when the capsule surrounding the shoulder joint is irritated and inflammation occurs. This causes fibrosis, or scarring of the capsule, and portions of the capsule then stick together. 

SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS: Symptoms begin with pain and loss of range of motion (ROM), often becoming worse in the evening and resulting in an inability to sleep on the affected side. Usually, a capsular pattern is present, with the greatest loss of ROM moving from external rotation > abduction > internal rotation.

DID YOU KNOW? Also known as adhesive capsulitis, there are two types of frozen shoulder: Idiopathic, of unknown cause, and Acquired, occurring after surgery or trauma. Risk factors include being female, older than 40 years of age, prolonged immobilization, having diabetes, thyroid disease, and autoimmune disorders. The duration of the disease process can last anywhere from 1-3 years; however, the sooner you begin treatment, the sooner you may return to full function.

HOW CAN PT HELP? A PT can assist in the diagnosis of frozen shoulder by performing a physical examination that includes specialized tests and a review of the patient’s history. A PT can help with controlling pain and inflammation, minimize the loss of ROM and help you to return to your previous level of function. They can prescribe at-home exercises to decrease your pain and increase ROM. 

COMMON TREATMENT: 

• Stage I & II: Physical therapy, steroid injections and medication
• Stage III & IV: Physical therapy to increase ROM and strength Surgical treatment may be required if conservative treatment fails, including manipulation under anesthesia followed by physical therapy, or arthroscopic release followed by physical therapy.