Frozen shoulder is also referred to as adhesive capsulitis. It is a condition of the shoulder that causes pain and a gradual loss in shoulder   movement.

The cause of Frozen Shoulder is unknown, but it probably involves an underlying inflammatory process.  The capsule surrounding the shoulder joint thickens and contracts.  This leaves less space for  the upper arm bone (humerus) to move around.  Frozen shoulder can also develop after a prolonged immobilization because of trauma or surgery to the joint.  Usually only one shoulder is affected, although in about one-third of cases, motion may be limited in both arms.

Who is at Risk?

Affects more woman than men
Usual onset begins between ages 40 and 65
Affects approximately 10% to 20% of diabetics
Other predisposing factors include:

 - A period of enforced immobility, resulting from trauma, overuse injuries or surgery
 - Hyperhyroidism
 - Cardiovascular Disease
 - Clinical Depression
 - Parkinson's Diseaase
 

Diagnosis and Treatment

Therapist will test the range of motion in arm/shoulder and rule out any underlying condition.  Treatment is geared to relieving the discomfort and restoring motion and function to the shoulder.