In frozen shoulder, the joint capsule becomes painful and progressively stiff. Both movements you make yourself and movements guided by someone else are restricted. The condition often lasts many months and sometimes years.
Sudden, marked restriction after injury, fever or a red, hot shoulder should be assessed promptly.
Causes and risk factors
The cause often remains unclear. Diabetes and thyroid conditions are associated with a higher risk. Shoulder stiffness can also develop after injury, surgery or a prolonged period of limited movement.
Typical symptoms
Pain and disturbed sleep are often the main early symptoms. Later, the shoulder becomes increasingly stiff, for example when dressing or reaching behind the back. External rotation is often particularly restricted.
Diagnosis
We compare active and passive movement and assess other possible causes, such as osteoarthritis. X-rays can help distinguish these. The diagnosis is mainly based on the clinical pattern; not every painful shoulder is a frozen shoulder.
Non-surgical treatment
Treatment is guided by pain and the stage of the condition. Pain medication or a targeted cortisone injection may provide temporary help. Gentle, guided movement is useful; forceful stretching during the very painful phase can worsen symptoms.
Surgical options
Specialist procedures may be considered for severe, longstanding limitations. Surgical release of the capsule is an individual decision after conservative treatment. Shoulder operations are not included in our current surgical service; referral is arranged when necessary.
Aftercare and rehabilitation
Range of movement is checked regularly and exercises adjusted. Small steps that fit everyday life are often better than aggressive mobilisation. After specialist procedures, coordinated rehabilitation is particularly important to maintain the movement gained.
Common questions
Will a frozen shoulder go away?
Pain and movement often improve over time. The duration and extent of recovery vary between individuals.
Should I stretch hard despite the pain?
No. Intensity should match the stage of the condition and be guided appropriately; severe pain is not a useful exercise target.
Arrange a consultation
We discuss which treatment is suitable for your findings and which procedures are available within our outpatient service during a personal consultation. Outpatient operations take place at an external surgical centre.
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Further reading
Selected external resources about this condition. Some linked publications are in German.
Medical background
Sources & further information
These professional and patient resources provide further information about this condition. The text on this page is independently written.
NHS: Frozen shoulderAAOS: Frozen shoulder