When the Shoulder Refuses to Move
Frozen shoulder, also known as adhesive capsulitis, is a condition where the shoulder joint becomes stiff and painful. Over time, the range of movement becomes more limited, making daily tasks such as reaching overhead, fastening clothes, or even combing hair difficult.
The condition usually develops gradually, often without a clear injury. It tends to affect people between the ages of 40 and 60, and is more common in individuals with diabetes or those recovering from shoulder surgery or prolonged immobilisation.
Recognising the Symptoms
Frozen shoulder often follows three phases:
- Freezing phase – Increasing pain and stiffness; shoulder movement becomes limited.
- Frozen phase – Pain may lessen, but stiffness worsens, making it hard to lift or rotate the arm.
- Thawing phase – Gradual improvement in movement and reduction in stiffness.
These phases can unfold over months to years if not addressed.
Why Does It Happen?
The exact cause isn’t always clear, but frozen shoulder occurs when the capsule around the shoulder joint thickens and tightens. Risk factors include:
- Diabetes or thyroid disorders
- Shoulder injuries or surgery requiring immobilisation
- Age (commonly between 40 and 60 years)
- Prolonged inactivity after injury or illness
Diagnosis: How Doctors Confirm It
An orthopaedic specialist will take a history of symptoms and assess shoulder mobility through a physical examination. Imaging such as X-rays or MRI scans may be recommended to rule out other shoulder problems like arthritis or rotator cuff tears.
Treatment Options for Frozen Shoulder
Treatment focuses on relieving pain and restoring movement. Options may include:
Medications
- Pain relievers and anti-inflammatory medicines to reduce discomfort
Physiotherapy
- Stretching and strengthening exercises tailored to improve shoulder flexibility
- Techniques such as heat therapy or ultrasound to ease stiffness
Injections
- Corticosteroid injections may be used to reduce inflammation and pain
- Hydrodilatation (injection of sterile fluid into the joint) can sometimes help improve mobility
Minimally Invasive Surgery
- If non-surgical methods fail, procedures such as arthroscopic capsular release may be considered to free up the joint capsule and improve movement
Living With and Preventing Frozen Shoulder
While frozen shoulder can be slow to improve, most people eventually regain good function with consistent care. To support recovery and reduce the risk of recurrence:
- Stay active and do regular stretching exercises
- Avoid prolonged immobilisation after injuries or surgery
- Manage medical conditions such as diabetes that increase the risk
When to Seek Medical Help
Consult a doctor if:
- Shoulder pain persists for weeks and limits your daily activities
- Movement becomes increasingly restricted
- Pain disrupts sleep or quality of life
Early treatment can make recovery smoother and may shorten the duration of symptoms.
Take the First Step Toward Relief
If you are struggling with shoulder stiffness or pain that isn’t improving, our team at Mash Spine & Orthopaedics can provide a thorough assessment and discuss treatment options suited to your condition.
- Farrer Park Medical Centre, 1 Farrer Park Station Road, #07-14 Connexion, Singapore 217562
- Call +65 6518 9545
- Book your Appointment Today
Frozen Shoulder – At a Glance
What it is:
- Stiffness and pain caused by thickening of the shoulder joint capsule
Key Symptoms:
- Shoulder pain that worsens over time
- Restricted movement (lifting, rotating, reaching)
- Symptoms progress through “freezing,” “frozen,” and “thawing” phases
Who’s at risk:
- Adults aged 40–60
- People with diabetes or thyroid disorders
- Those recovering from shoulder injury or surgery
- Individuals with prolonged shoulder immobilisation
Treatment Options:
- Pain relief medications
- Physiotherapy and guided stretching
- Injections (steroids, hydrodilatation)
- Arthroscopic surgery if non-surgical care is unsuccessful
