Frozen shoulder or adhesive capsulitis, is inflammation and scarring of the capsule surrounding the shoulder joint. It is most common in adults over 40yrs old. It can develop after disuse of the shoulder following pain or a previous injury as well as due to a chronic health condition, such as diabetes or stroke. It is usually the result of some form of irritation to the shoulder joint, causing inflammation of the capsule and, over time, this forms adhesions and scar tissue in the shoulder, severely reducing shoulder movement.
Signs and Symptoms include:
- Pain in the shoulder – could be sharp or dull but generally feels quite deep.
- Pain at night
- Noticeable muscle wastage.
- Very painful movements of the shoulder.
- Guarding/hiking of the shoulder during movement.