Adhesive Capsulitis (Frozen Shoulder)

True adhesive capsulitis, also known as frozen shoulder, is an acute inflammatory condition of the glenohumeral (shoulder) joint capsule. Patients typically experience an episode of acute, constant shoulder pain, with no specific cause.  This episode leads to the joint capsule tightening, and a subsequent loss of range of motion. Physical therapy can help reduce the acute pain, while helping to restore range of motion.  This condition typically takes some time to recover, but by receiving manual therapy consisting of joint mobilizations by a skilled clinician, the duration of immobility can be shortened.

Associated Symptoms:

  • Shoulder pain, can radiate down to elbow and hand.
  • Shoulder stiffness, reduced range of motion.
  • Pain with movement of the arm.
  • Pain into the neck and shoulder blade
  • Difficulty reaching overhead, behind one’s back.
  • Pain lying on the affected side

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