The term "frozen shoulder" refers to a condition that causes inflammation and scar tissue to form in the lining of the shoulder joint (the "joint capsule").
In 90% of cases there is no known cause.5% of cases are associated with diabetes and 5% occur after a minor injury. Symptoms classically start 2 weeks after an injury. Strictly speaking,shoulder stiffness after an operation is not really classical frozen shoulder.
Any athlete who complains of pain when lifting the arm more than 2 weeks after injuring his shoulder should consult his GP or physio and if necessary be referred to a Shoulder Specialist.
Most common between the ages of 40 and 55 and slightly more common in females.
Severe pain in the early stages, followed by stiffness in the later stages. Pain with sudden movements is extremely characteristic of frozen shoulder. Stiffness usually presents with patients not being able to do their bra up, tuck their shirt in at the back and washing their hair.
There are 4 stages of the disease:
3 reliable treatment options exist