Frozen Shoulder: What It Is, Why It Happens, and What to Expect
This month I’ve had several Frozen Shoulder cases. It's a unique problem, different enough from most shoulder issues that I figured it was worth explaining here.
It Doesn't Start With an Injury
Most shoulder problems begin with an injury. Frozen shoulder is different. While it CAN be triggered by an injury, it often isn’t. In these cases, the cause is said to be idiopathic or “of unknown origin”.
It can affect anyone, but Frozen Shoulder seems to be statistically more prevalent in females aged around 40-50 (and I usually see it in the left arm!).
There are some metabolic factors that seem to increase risk, such as diabetes, thyroid imbalances, Parkinson’s, and Cardiovascular Disease. If you've been diagnosed with frozen shoulder, it's worth checking in with your primary care doctor to rule out any of these as contributing factors.
What's Actually Happening in the Joint
Frozen Shoulder is characterized by a distinct and rapid loss of range of motion in the shoulder, accompanied by deep, boring pain that may refer into the arm or neck. The restriction is mechanical and affects active (you moving your own arm) and passive (someone else moves your arm for you) motion.
The loss of motion is caused by a sudden spike in inflammation in the glenohumeral (ball and socket) joint. This inflammation causes scar tissue formation, which basically glues your ball and socket together. The result is a shoulder that becomes increasingly difficult to move.
The Three Stages
Frozen shoulder doesn't resolve quickly. It runs a course of six months to a year or more and moves through three distinct stages:
Freezing — Pain increases and range of motion begins to decline
Frozen — Motion is significantly limited, though pain may start to ease
Thawing — Range of motion gradually returns
There is no cure. It has to run its course.
Why Treatment Still Matters
Because frozen shoulder resolves on its own, it's tempting to just wait it out. But how the problem is managed during those stages has a real impact on outcomes. Left unmanaged, frozen shoulder can result in decreased range of motion that persists even after the condition resolves, and in some cases, permanent loss of shoulder function.
Treatment focuses on limiting the loss of range of motion, minimizing inflammation, and managing pain. In extreme cases, surgery may be necessary to restore range of motion.
At Motivity, we use a combination of approaches: chiropractic adjustments of the spine and shoulder, myofascial release, dry needling, and cold laser therapy. We also recommend at-home stretches and exercises, along with targeted supplements and dietary changes to limit inflammation.
A Frustrating Problem With a Clear Path Forward
Frozen shoulder is frustrating because the goal isn't to fix it, it's to manage it well enough that your shoulder comes out the other side with as much function as possible. If you're dealing with unexplained shoulder stiffness or pain, don't wait to get it evaluated. The earlier treatment begins, the better the outcome tends to be.
If you'd like to schedule an appointment, you can reach us through the contact form or give us a call at 205-356-7204.
