Frozen Shoulder
A condition where the shoulder becomes painful and stiff, with greatly reduced movement, usually getting better slowly over one to three years.
Quick Summary
Shoulder pain, especially at night, followed by stiffness and difficulty raising the arm or reaching behind the back.
Pain relief, physiotherapy and exercises, steroid injections and sometimes procedures.
Age 40–60, diabetes, thyroid problems, and immobility after injury or surgery.
Overview
The capsule around the shoulder joint becomes thickened and tight. It passes through freezing (painful), frozen (stiff) and thawing (improving) stages.
It's much more common in people with diabetes.
Symptoms
Shoulder pain
Worse at night.
Stiffness
Difficulty dressing or combing hair.
Reduced movement
In all directions.
Slow recovery
Over many months.
Causes & Risk Factors
Biological Causes
Inflammation and scarring of the shoulder capsule; often no clear trigger.
Key Risk Factors
- Diabetes Strongly linked.
- Age and sex Women aged 40–60.
- Immobility After injury or surgery.
Management & Treatment
01. Pain relief
Painkillers and anti-inflammatories.
02. Physiotherapy
Gentle stretching exercises.
03. Injections
Steroid injections ease pain.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will it get better on its own?
Can it affect the other shoulder?
Sources and further reading
Last updated 21 October 2026. For more detail, see these trusted health organisations.
- Shoulder Injuries and Disorders(opens in a new tab) · MedlinePlus, US National Library of Medicine
- Frozen shoulder(opens in a new tab) · NHS