Frozen shoulder

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Shoulder joint inflammation

Adhesive capsulitis

The main symptoms are pain and stiffness.

In those with idiopathic frozen shoulder (frozen shoulder without an identifiable cause), pain is usually the first symptom. The patient usually does not want to move the arm. The lack of movement leads to stiffness, which is the second phase of the disease. The third phase, thawing, is when the motion and function of the shoulder slowly returns.

The diagnosis is made primarily by physical exam and the patient's medical history. There is usually a history of shoulder pain followed by severe stiffness, which may not be very painful. If the patient has any history of the risk factors associated with frozen shoulder, these may require treatment as well.

Imaging studies such as x-rays are routine to make sure there is no other problem, such as arthritis. MRI exams may show widespread inflammation, but there are no findings specific to frozen shoulder.

Review Date: 03/09/2007
Reviewed By: Thomas N. Joseph, MD, Private Practice specializing in Orthopaedics, CamdenBone & Joint, Camden, SC. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.