Have you experienced a frozen shoulder?

Finding it hard to lift your arm? Feeling pain or stiffness in your shoulder? You could have a condition called frozen shoulder.  If left untreated, it can be difficult to have a range of motion.  

Frozen shoulder symptoms

If you’re experiencing a frozen shoulder, the shoulder capsule that surrounds the shoulder joint and rotator cuff tendons will become tight and stiffen. This can cause a dull or aching pain that’s usually located on the outer shoulder area and sometimes the upper arm.

Risk factors for frozen shoulder

The cause of frozen shoulder has not been identified, but there are risk factors that could contribute to it:

• Diabetes  
• Stroke
• Thyroid disorder
• Shoulder injury
• Dupuytren disease
• Parkinson’s disease
• Cancer
• Complex regional pain syndrome  

Frozen shoulder treatment

After being evaluated by your primary care provider, you will discuss your treatment options. This could include surgical or non-surgical options based on your imaging results.

Non-surgical treatments:

• Hot and cold compress
• Physical therapy
• Steroid injections

Surgical treatments:

• Manipulation under anesthesia: Your orthopedic surgeon will move your arm to release the tightening in your shoulder. This will improve your range of motion.  
• Shoulder arthroscopy: Your orthopedic surgeon will make small incisions in the tight areas of your shoulder capsule to release the tightness.

Schedule an appointment with your primary care provider to see if you need to be referred to a physical therapist or orthopedic surgeon.  

This blog was medically reviewed by a MercyOne provider.