
Frozen shoulder can significantly impact your ability to perform daily activities, making early diagnosis and treatment essential for recovery. Whether you’re an athlete, an active adult, or someone managing joint problems, this guide will provide you with the knowledge you need to understand frozen shoulder and seek appropriate care.
Contact our experts at Precision Orthopaedic Specialties in Northeast Ohio today!
Frozen shoulder (medically called adhesive capsulitis) is a condition where the shoulder joint becomes stiff, painful, and difficult to move. It occurs when the shoulder capsule—a sac of connective tissue surrounding the shoulder joint—thickens and tightens around the shoulder joint, causing a significant restriction in the range of motion.
The condition primarily affects the ball and socket joint of the shoulder, where the upper arm bone (humerus) fits into the shoulder blade (scapula).
Frozen shoulder typically progresses through three distinct stages:
The entire process can take anywhere from several months to up to three years, depending on the severity of the condition and treatment options.
Factors that contribute to frozen shoulder include:
Frozen shoulder symptoms include:
Shoulder specialists diagnose frozen shoulder based on your medical history, physical examination, and imaging tests. During a physical exam, a doctor will assess the range of motion in the affected shoulder. They may also perform imaging tests such as X-rays or MRI to rule out other conditions like arthritis or rotator cuff injuries.
Frozen shoulder treatment focuses on relieving pain and restoring shoulder movement. Treatment options include:
While working with a physical therapist, you will be guided through gentle stretching and strengthening exercises to improve shoulder movement. Some commonly recommended exercises include:
If you’re experiencing symptoms or think you may be developing frozen shoulder, it’s essential to seek treatment early. The team at Precision Orthopaedic Specialties specializes in diagnosing and treating a wide range of shoulder conditions, including frozen shoulder.
Our experienced shoulder specialists in Northeast Ohio provide personalized care to help you restore your range of motion and get back to your active lifestyle. Contact us at Precision Orthopaedic Specialties today to schedule an appointment and begin your path to recovery!
Medically reviewed by Laszlo S. Harmat, D.O.
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