Adhesive capsulitis of the shoulder
Other names	Frozen shoulder
The right shoulder & glenohumeral joint.
Specialty	Orthopedics
Symptoms	Shoulder pain, stiffness [1]
Complications	Fracture of the humerus, biceps tendon rupture [2]
Usual onset	40 to 60 year old [1]
Duration	May last years [1]
Types	Primary, secondary [2]
Causes	Often unknown, prior shoulder injury [1] [2]
Risk factors	Diabetes, hypothyroidism [1]
Differential diagnosis	Pinched nerve, autoimmune disease, biceps tendinopathy, osteoarthritis, rotator cuff tear, cancer, bursitis [1]
Treatment	NSAIDs, physical therapy, steroids, injecting the shoulder at high pressure, surgery [1]
Frequency	~4% [1]

Adhesive capsulitis, also known as frozen shoulder, is a condition associated with shoulder pain and stiffness. ^[1] There is a loss of the ability to move the shoulder, both voluntarily and by others, in multiple directions. ^{[1] [2]} The shoulder itself; however, does not generally hurt significantly when touched. ^[1] Muscle loss around the shoulder may also occur. ^[1] Onset is gradual over weeks to months. ^[2] Complications can include fracture of the humerus or biceps tendon rupture. ^[2]

The cause in most cases is unknown. ^[1] The condition can also occur after injury or surgery to the shoulder. ^[2] Risk factors include diabetes and thyroid disease. ^[1] The underlying mechanism involves Inflammation and scarring. ^{[2] [3]} The diagnosis is generally based on a person's symptoms and a physical exam. ^[1] The diagnosis may be supported by an MRI. ^[1]

The condition often resolves over time without intervention but this may take several years. ^[1] While a number of treatments such as NSAIDs, physical therapy, steroids, and injecting the shoulder at high pressure may be tried it is unclear what is best. ^[1] Surgery may be suggested for those who do not get better after a few months. ^[1] About 4% of people are affected. ^[1] It is more common in people 40–60 years of age and in women. ^[1]

References