About Frozen Shoulder

Frozen shoulder, or adhesive capsulitis, is a condition that causes pain, stiffness, and restricted movement in the shoulder joint. It usually develops slowly, worsens over time, and can last for months or even years—often making routine tasks like dressing, driving, or lifting difficult.
This condition results from inflammation and thickening of the joint capsule, forming adhesions that limit shoulder mobility. Early medical intervention at MASSH MANAS – Noida can help prevent long-term complications and restore movement.

Stages of Frozen Shoulder

1. Freezing Stage

• Persistent shoulder pain
• Gradual reduction in movement
• Lasts 6–9 months

2. Frozen Stage

• Pain may subside, but stiffness dominates
• Daily tasks become harder
• Lasts 4–12 months

3. Thawing Stage

• Gradual return of movement
• Pain continues to fade
• Can last 6 months to 2 years

Signs and Symptoms of Frozen Shoulder

• Constant dull shoulder pain, worse at night
• Marked stiffness in shoulder joint
• Limited arm movement in all directions
• Difficulty with overhead tasks or behind-the-back motions
• Discomfort during sleep on affected side
• Loss of shoulder strength over time

Causes of Frozen Shoulder

• Idiopathic (without a clear cause)
• Post-injury or post-surgery stiffness
• Diabetes and thyroid disorders
• Neurological conditions (e.g., Parkinson’s, stroke)
• Prolonged shoulder immobility
• Autoimmune inflammation

Risk Factors of Frozen Shoulder 

• Age group 40–60 years
• More common in women
• Diabetic patients
• Postoperative shoulder immobilization
• Endocrine disorders like hypothyroidism

Complications of Frozen Shoulder

• Chronic shoulder stiffness
• Persistent pain affecting sleep and daily life
• Reduced shoulder strength and function
• Inability to perform overhead work
• Dependence on other arm
• Delayed rehabilitation in diabetics or elderly

Diagnosis of Frozen Shoulder

• Physical Examination
  
  • Range of motion assessed actively and passively
• X-rays
  
  • To rule out arthritis or bony growths
• MRI/Ultrasound
  
  • Identifies capsule thickening or inflammation
• Clinical history
  
  • Any previous trauma, surgery, or systemic illness

Frozen Shoulder Treatment Options

• Medications (prescribed by specialists)
  
  • NSAIDs or corticosteroids to reduce inflammation
• Physiotherapy
  
  • Gentle stretching exercises
  • Shoulder mobility therapy by expert physiotherapists
• Heat/Cold therapy
  
  • For pain and muscle relaxation
• Electrotherapy or ultrasound therapy

Frozen Shoulder Surgical Options (for severe, non-responsive cases)

• Hydrodilatation – Fluid injection to expand and release joint capsule
• Manipulation Under Anesthesia (MUA) – Shoulder moved while patient is asleep
• Arthroscopic Capsular Release – Minimally invasive surgery to cut adhesions

At MASSH MANAS – Noida, these interventions are performed by senior orthopedic specialists with access to advanced 3D imaging and arthroscopy suites.