What Is Frozen Shoulder?
Frozen shoulder, also called adhesive capsulitis, is a condition that causes pain, stiffness, and limited movement in the shoulder joint. The condition develops when the connective tissue surrounding the shoulder joint becomes inflamed, thickened, and tight.
Frozen shoulder often develops gradually over time and may significantly limit daily activities such as reaching, lifting, dressing, or sleeping comfortably. The condition commonly progresses through stages of increasing pain and stiffness before slowly improving.
At Delaware Orthopaedic Specialists, our fellowship-trained shoulder specialists provide comprehensive diagnosis and treatment options designed to reduce pain, restore mobility, and improve shoulder function.
Symptoms of Frozen Shoulder
- Persistent shoulder pain
- Progressive stiffness and reduced mobility
- Difficulty lifting or rotating the arm
- Pain that worsens at night
- Difficulty performing daily activities
- Limited range of motion in all directions
- Weakness due to reduced shoulder use
Causes & Risk Factors
Frozen shoulder develops when inflammation and scar tissue form around the shoulder joint capsule.
- Shoulder injuries or surgery
- Prolonged shoulder immobilization
- Diabetes
- Thyroid disorders
- Inflammatory conditions
- Previous shoulder problems
- Age-related joint changes
Diagnosis
At Delaware Orthopaedic Specialists, diagnosis begins with a detailed evaluation of the shoulder joint and movement limitations.
- Physical examination of the shoulder
- Assessment of active and passive range of motion
- Review of symptoms and medical history
- Evaluation of pain patterns and stiffness
- X-rays or MRI imaging when needed to rule out other conditions
Accurate diagnosis helps distinguish frozen shoulder from rotator cuff injuries, arthritis, and other shoulder conditions.
Treatment Options for Frozen Shoulder
Non-Surgical Treatment
Most cases of frozen shoulder improve with conservative treatment, though recovery may take time. Non-surgical treatment options may include:
- Physical therapy and stretching exercises
- Anti-inflammatory medications
- Corticosteroid injections
- Heat and ice therapy
- Range-of-motion exercises
- Pain management strategies
Surgical Treatment
Surgery may be recommended for severe stiffness or symptoms that do not improve with conservative treatment. Arthroscopic procedures or manipulation under anesthesia may help release tight joint tissue and improve shoulder mobility. Our orthopedic surgeons use advanced minimally invasive techniques designed to support recovery and restore motion.
Recovery & Rehabilitation
Recovery timelines vary depending on the severity of the condition and the treatment approach used.
- Frozen shoulder often improves gradually over several months
- Physical therapy is essential for restoring mobility
- Stretching and range-of-motion exercises help reduce stiffness
- Surgical recovery may require ongoing rehabilitation
Our team works closely with patients throughout rehabilitation to help restore comfortable shoulder movement and daily function.
Why Choose Delaware Orthopaedic Specialists?
Local Care, Close to Home
We proudly serve patients throughout Delaware and nearby communities, including Wilmington, Newark, Middletown, Stanton, North Wilmington, and Chadds Ford. Our shoulder specialists provide advanced orthopedic care close to home.
At Delaware Orthopaedic Specialists, our fellowship-trained physicians provide comprehensive diagnosis and treatment for shoulder pain and mobility conditions.
- Experienced shoulder and sports medicine specialists
- Advanced imaging and joint evaluation
- Comprehensive non-surgical and surgical treatment options
- Personalized rehabilitation and recovery plans
- Convenient locations throughout Delaware and nearby Pennsylvania
Schedule an Appointment
Schedule an appointment with Delaware Orthopaedic Specialists today to receive expert diagnosis and treatment for frozen shoulder.
Frequently Asked Questions
What causes frozen shoulder?
Frozen shoulder develops when the shoulder joint capsule becomes inflamed and tight, often after injury, surgery, or prolonged immobility.
Can frozen shoulder go away on its own?
Frozen shoulder may improve gradually over time, though treatment often helps reduce pain and restore movement more effectively.
How long does frozen shoulder last?
Recovery timelines vary, but symptoms may persist for several months to over a year depending on severity and treatment.
Is physical therapy important for frozen shoulder?
Yes. Physical therapy and stretching exercises are often essential for restoring shoulder mobility and reducing stiffness.
When should I see a specialist?
If shoulder stiffness, pain, or limited mobility interferes with sleep, work, or daily activities, it is important to seek orthopedic evaluation.