Adhesive Capsulitis (Frozen Shoulder)

A painful condition where the connective tissue surrounding the shoulder joint thickens and tightens, severely restricting your range of motion.

Symptoms

• Persistent, dull ache in the shoulder (often worse at night)
• Sharp pain during sudden arm movements
• Progressive stiffness making simple tasks like reaching or dressing difficult

Causes 

Inflammation leads to scar tissue formation and a reduction in synovial fluid, causing the joint capsule to contract tightly around the humerus head.

Risk Factors

• Age 40 and older (more common in women)
• Prolonged shoulder immobility following surgery, injury, or stroke
• Systemic conditions such as diabetes, thyroid disease, and cardiovascular disease

Diagnosis 

A physical exam assessing active and passive range of motion, often paired with X-rays or MRI to rule out arthritis or rotator cuff tears.

Treatment

• Non-surgical: Targeted physical therapy, NSAIDs, and corticosteroid injections
• Advanced: Joint distension (hydrodilatation) or minimally invasive arthroscopic capsule release