Frozen Shoulder
A condition where the shoulder capsule thickens and tightens, causing pain and a progressive loss of motion that develops in gradual stages.
About this condition
Frozen shoulder, also called adhesive capsulitis, happens when the tissue surrounding the shoulder joint thickens, stiffens, and forms scar tissue. It typically moves through stages of increasing pain, then stiffness, then gradual thawing. The shoulder becomes hard to move in every direction, both on your own and when someone moves it for you.
Dr. Sonntag emphasizes that most frozen shoulders improve over time with patience and the right care. He guides recovery with physical therapy, stretching, and injections to control pain and restore motion. When stiffness is severe and persistent, he may recommend a manipulation under anesthesia to release the tight capsule.
Common symptoms
- Gradual loss of shoulder motion
- Stiffness that worsens over months
- Dull, aching pain in the shoulder
- Difficulty with everyday reaching tasks
- Pain that disrupts sleep
- Trouble raising the arm overhead
Common causes
- Prolonged shoulder immobilization
- Diabetes and thyroid conditions
- Recovery after shoulder surgery or injury
- Age, most common between 40 and 60
- Unknown factors in many cases
How Dr. Sonntag treats this
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Learn moreCare with Dr. Jeffrey R. Sonntag
Dr. Jeffrey R. Sonntag, DO is a board-certified orthopedic surgeon with fellowship training in shoulder and elbow surgery, practicing at OSMC in Granger, IN, Elkhart, IN, Middlebury, IN.
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