Frozen Shoulder

Information On

Shoulder Information

Frozen Shoulder (Adhesive Capsulitis)

Adhesive capsulitis, or "frozen shoulder", is a painful condition which results in a severe loss of motion in the shoulder. It may follow an injury to the shoulder, but may also arise gradually with no warning or injury. The shoulder actually "freezes up" due to a severe inflammation of the joint capsule.

It occurs in a wide range of ages, commonly between 40-70 years old.

	The shoulder, being the most mobile joint in the body, is supported by very loose, elastic ligaments.
	The capsule surrounds the joint and is 'water-tight'.
	Looking inside the shoulder joint with the arthroscope, you can see the thin elastic capsule and how it can be easily distended with fluid.
In the frozen shoulder, the usually slack tissue that usually allows a great deal of motion at the shoulder sticks together, limiting the motion.
	"The causes of a frozen shoulder are unknown. It is indeed a curious and perplexing problem that often causes substantial frustration for patients, therapists and physicians. Fortunately, it is a self limited process and often improves with the tincture of time and conservative treatment."

Frozen Shoulder Home

Symptoms

Investigations

Treatment