Frozen shoulder is a common condition in which the shoulder stiffens, reducing its mobility.

Frozen shoulder, medically referred to as adhesive capsulitis, is a disorder in which the shoulder capsule, the connective tissue surrounding the glenohumeral joint of the shoulder, becomes inflamed and stiff. Movement of the shoulder is severely restricted.

The term "frozen shoulder" is often used incorrectly for arthritis, but these two conditions are unrelated. Frozen shoulder refers specifically to the shoulder joint, while arthritis may refer to other or multiple joints. It commonly affects people aged between 40 and 60 years, and it is more likely in women than in men. It is estimated to affect about 3% of people. It can affect one or both shoulders.

The treatment of a frozen shoulder usually requires an aggressive combination of anti-inflammatory medication, cortisone injection(s) into the shoulder, and physical therapy. Without aggressive treatment, a frozen shoulder can be permanent.

Diligent physical therapy is often key and can include ultrasound, electric stimulation, range of motion exercise maneuvers, ice packs, and eventually strengthening exercises. Physical therapy can take weeks to months for recovery, depending on the severity of the scarring of the tissues around the shoulder.

It is very important for persons with a frozen shoulder to avoid re-injuring the shoulder tissues during the rehabilitation period. These individuals should avoid sudden, jerking motions of or heavy lifting with the affected shoulder.

Massage treatments done regularly can help in alleviating the shoulder pain and loosening or relaxing the stiff shoulder muscles. Other treatments done for frozen shoulder also include heat therapy, home exercises, physical therapy, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications (NSAIDs) and steroid injections. Immediate treatment leads to faster recovery, however, it can take anywhere from 12 to 18 months to completely restore the shoulder range of motion. Usually conservative treatments are sufficient for relief from frozen shoulder, but in some cases surgery may be required in order release the contracted shoulder joint capsule.

Massageis very beneficial in treating frozen shoulder as it increases the blood circulation to the injured region and also reduces the formation of scar tissue. Regular massage should be done to reduce the muscle stiffness. The pain and stiffness usually gets relieved after several massage treatments.It however, does not necessarily fix the frozen shoulder, but rather helps reduces pain.

Pendulum stretch: Stand with the shoulders relaxed. Lean forward with the hand of the unaffected arm resting on a table. Let the affected arm hang down vertically and swing in a small circle, around 1 foot in diameter. Increase the diameter over several days, as you gain strength.

Towel stretch: Grab both ends of a towel behind your back. With the good arm, pull the towel, and the affected arm, up toward the shoulder. Repeat 10 to 20 times a day.

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