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Frozen shoulder - Symptom

Alternative Names

Adhesive capsulitis

Symptoms:

The main symptoms are pain and stiffness.

In those with idiopathic frozen shoulder (frozen shoulder without an identifiable cause), pain is usually the first symptom. The patient usually does not want to move the arm. The lack of movement leads to stiffness, which is the second phase of the disease. The third phase, thawing, is when the motion and function of the shoulder slowly returns.

Signs and tests:

The diagnosis is made primarily by physical exam and the patient's medical history. There is usually a history of shoulder pain followed by severe stiffness, which may not be very painful. If the patient has any history of the risk factors associated with frozen shoulder, these may require treatment as well.

Imaging studies such as x-rays are routine to make sure there is no other problem, such as arthritis. MRI exams may show widespread inflammation, but there are no findings specific to frozen shoulder.

  • Reviewed last on: 3/9/2007
  • Thomas N. Joseph, MD, Private Practice specializing in Orthopaedics, CamdenBone & Joint, Camden, SC. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

References

Sheridan MA, Hannafin JA. Upper extremity: emphasis on frozen shoulder. Orthop Clin North Am. 2006 Oct;37(4):531-9. Review.

Brue S, Valentin A, Forssblad M, Werner S, Mikkelsen C, Cerulli G. Idiopathic adhesive capsulitis of the shoulder: a review. Knee Surg Sports Traumatol Arthrosc. 2007 Feb 28; [Epub ahead of print].