Frozen Shoulder - What is It?

Frozen shoulder is also known as adhesive capsulitis. This condition is characterized by stiffness and pain in the shoulder joint. A connective tissue capsule encasing the bones, ligaments, and joints of the shoulder thickens and tightens, significantly restricting movement. This condition tends to occur most commonly after prolonged immobility of the shoulder joint which can happen after injury, stroke, or certain surgeries. Keeping the joint as mobile as possible is very important after such conditions and performing suggested rehabilitation exercises will help to prevent the onset of stiffness and adhesion around the joint capsule

It usually develops slowly and in three stages. First there is pain with any type of movement and limited range of motion in the shoulder joint with such exercises as raising the arms overhead, touching the opposite shoulder and pain with reaching behind to scratch the back. Next there may be the frozen stage when pain decreases but range of motion significantly decreases. The last stage is the thawing stage when the range of motion begins to improve. Manipulation of the soft tissue with massage therapy to help break up adhesions and range of motion exercises can help with progression through the thawing phase.

Follow the links for more information on frozen shoulder at Frozen Shoulder Treatment in Chandler
Mayo