What is Frozen Shoulder?

Frozen shoulder, medically known as adhesive capsulitis, is a condition characterized by progressive stiffening and pain in the shoulder joint due to thickening and tightening of the connective tissue capsule surrounding it. It typically develops slowly over months, passing through distinct freezing, frozen, and thawing phases, and can severely limit the ability to perform overhead or reaching movements. It is more common in people with diabetes and those who have had prolonged shoulder immobilization following injury or surgery. Most cases eventually resolve, though the full course can take one to three years.

What are the main symptoms of Frozen Shoulder?

The most common symptoms include: Gradual onset of shoulder pain; progressive stiffness and reduced range of motion; difficulty raising the arm overhead or behind the back; pain that worsens at night and disrupts sleep. Early recognition is key to prompt diagnosis and effective treatment.

Is Frozen Shoulder contagious?

No, Frozen Shoulder is not contagious. It cannot spread through casual contact. However, certain risk factors and genetic predispositions may increase susceptibility.

How is Frozen Shoulder treated?

Treatment options include: Treatment centers on physical therapy with progressive stretching exercises to restore range of motion; combined with pain relief using nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and corticosteroid injections into the joint. Hydrodilatation; where fluid is injected to stretch the joint capsule. Treatment should always be guided by a qualified Orthopedics specialist. Do not self-medicate.

Can Frozen Shoulder be prevented?

While Frozen Shoulder cannot always be fully prevented, several measures can reduce risk: Early mobilization and physical therapy after shoulder injury or surgery rather than prolonged immobilization; good control of blood sugar in diabetics; regular shoulder stretching exercises.

When should I see a doctor for Frozen Shoulder?

Consult a Orthopedics specialist if symptoms persist for more than a few days, worsen despite home care, or significantly affect your daily activities. Early diagnosis leads to better outcomes.

All Diseases/Frozen Shoulder

🦴

MusculoskeletalModerate

Frozen Shoulder

Orthopedics · Musculoskeletal

Moderate

Severity

Moderately common — affects roughly 2-5% of the general population, more frequently in people with diabetes

Prevalence

Contagious

Orthopedics

Specialist

Find a Specialist View Hospitals

Back to Frozen Shoulder's full page

🛡️Prevention of Frozen Shoulder

1Early mobilization and physical therapy after shoulder injury or surgery rather than prolonged immobilization
2good control of blood sugar in diabetics
3regular shoulder stretching exercises
4prompt treatment of shoulder pain to avoid compensatory stiffness
5maintaining overall shoulder mobility with routine activity

More About Frozen Shoulder

About the Frozen Shoulder Warning Signs of Frozen Shoulder Common Symptoms of Frozen Shoulder Causes & Risk Factors of Frozen Shoulder How Doctors Diagnose Frozen Shoulder Treatment Options for Frozen Shoulder Frozen Shoulder Progression Frozen Shoulder Treatment Cost Frequently Asked Questions About Frozen Shoulder Ask a Question About Frozen Shoulder Conditions Related to Frozen Shoulder

Why Lab Dekho?

✅500+ verified specialists
🏥200+ partner hospitals across India
💰Best price guarantee on all services
🔒Insurance & cashless assistance
📞24/7 medical helpline support

Book a Specialist Consultation

Talk to a Orthopedics expert today

Find Orthopedics Doctors Browse Hospitals Book Lab Tests

Quick Cost Estimate

Consultation₹300 – ₹5,000

Diagnostics₹500 – ₹25,000

Hospitalisation₹5K – ₹1 lakh

Get a Treatment Plan

Orthopedics Specialists Available

Consult online · Avg wait 15 min

Frozen Shoulder in Top Cities

Frozen Shoulder in New Delhi Frozen Shoulder in Mumbai Frozen Shoulder in Bengaluru Frozen Shoulder in Pune Frozen Shoulder in Hyderabad Frozen Shoulder in Chennai Frozen Shoulder in Kolkata Frozen Shoulder in Gurugram Frozen Shoulder in Noida Frozen Shoulder in Ahmedabad Frozen Shoulder in Jaipur Frozen Shoulder in Lucknow Frozen Shoulder in Chandigarh Frozen Shoulder in Indore