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Dr. Daniel C. Eby

Orthopedic Surgery & Sports Medicine

Frozen Shoulder

Frozen shoulder, which is also known as adhesive capsulitis, is an inflammatory condition.  The disorder developed when the tissues around the shoulder joint stiffen, and scar tissue forms.

The scar tissue prevents proper motion and causes painful movements. It can develop when you stop using your shoulder because of pain, other injuries, or a chronic health condition, such as diabetes.

Frozen shoulder can result from not moving your shoulder for a prolonged period.

Risk Factors

  • Immobility of your shoulder, for example in a sling
  • Autoimmune disorders including diabetes mellitus
  • Other conditions including thyroid disorders, and neck conditions
  • Trauma or injury to the affected shoulder
  • Surgical procedures involving the chest
  • Diabetes Mellitus

Symptoms

  • Painful range of motion 
  • Loss of motion over time
  • Stiffness

Imaging and Diagnosis

X-rays are important to rule out other possible reasons for your symptoms.

Treatment

Avoid using a sling and maintain the motion of your shoulder. Dr. Eby and staff can provide therapies to help relieve pain and improve your shoulder’s condition. If left untreated, adhesive capsulitis can take 1 to 2 years to resolve. 

With the help of a well-placed injection, ice, anti-inflammatory medications and physical therapy, we can overcome the limitations of a frozen shoulder and get you back to your normal daily life. 

In a few rare cases, patients may require further treatment. Some patients who fail conservative treatments may require manipulation of the shoulder to break apart the scarred tissue. Dr. Eby can perform this while you are asleep under general anesthesia. 

REFERENCES

McMahon, Patrick J., and Harry B. Skinner. Current Diagnosis & Treatment in Orthopedics. 6th ed., McGraw-Hill Medical, 2021.
Jennifer, Rynders, and Sara D Hart. Orthopaedics for Physician Assistants. 1st ed., Elsevier – Health Science, 2013.