Frozen Shoulder or frozen shoulder syndrome is also often called adhesive capsulitis.

Unlike any other joint in the body, the shoulder joint hangs in its socket and is mostly supported from above. While this makes it a very multifunctional and flexible joint, it also leads to a high degree of instability.

While this condition is found most often with people in their forties, and affecting 2-3% of the population, it can, surprisingly, also effect a younger demographic.

Many conditions may cause someone to develop frozen shoulder; hormonal influences, under use, interference of the nerve supply emanating from the neck and upper thoracic spine, trauma, and poor posture to name just a few.

Trauma, like cervical spine whiplash which may take years to manifest itself symptomatically, may also occur with the shoulder joint. Some major or even minor insult to the rotator cuff such as a fall or extreme over-use may then present as a frozen shoulder well after the original trauma occurs and is forgotten. Some further little irritation may then trigger an already existing weakness.

Poor posture, where for years the head is held in a forward position, shoulders hunched and a humped upper back, will lead to inactivity of some of the major shoulder muscles encouraging a recruitment of the lesser muscles to work harder. This can then lead them to become tired, overworked and as a result sore. Soreness leads to pain leading to a protective restriction. Restriction leads to inactivity and thus less localized circulation of fluids in and around the shoulder girdle, including synovial fluid and blood supply that feeds the joint and the surrounding tissue including the musculature.

Minor discomfort develops that without dedicated movement (remember that "if you don't use it, you will lose it") progresses to more severe symptomatology which can include interfering with your sleep especially when lying on the effected shoulder.

During this time, the body reacts by laying down adhesive material that further limits movement. Adhesions are abnormal bands of tissue that thicken and can be likened to internal scar tissue.

This 'freezing stage' can last from six weeks to nine months and is the most painful stage.

As we enter the 'frozen stage', the pain eases but the lack of motion remains. This stage reputedly last from four to six months.

In the 'thawing stage', motion slowly returns. This stage can take from five to twenty-six months, and may not progrss without treatment.

In the total worse case scenario, it can take as much as forty-four months from start to finish. And even then complete recovery is infrequent. As well, up to 15% will permanently lose their full range of motion; however, these figures could be significantly reduced by continuing flexibility and strengthening exercises for some months after the pain eases and disappears. 

If you suspect that you may have frozen shoulder, early intervention is the key.  If you would liek to have your shoulder evaluated by a therapist, please contact your nearest CPAT office.