“What is frozen shoulder?

Frozen shoulder (adhesive capsulitis) is stiffness, pain, and limited range of movement in your shoulder. It may happen after an injury or overuse or from a disease such as diabetes or a stroke. The tissues around the joint stiffen, scar tissue forms, and shoulder movements become difficult and painful. The condition usually comes on slowly, then goes away slowly over the course of a year or more.

What causes frozen shoulder?

• After surgery or injury when you stop using the joint normally.
• Most often in people 40 to 70 years old.
• More often in women (especially in postmenopausal women) than in men.
• Most often in people with chronic diseases, such as diabetes or a stroke.

How is frozen shoulder diagnosed?

Your doctor may suspect frozen shoulder if a physical exam reveals limited shoulder movement. An X-ray may be done to see whether symptoms are from another condition such as arthritis or a broken bone.

How is it treated?

• Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
• Application of heat to the affected area
• Gentle stretching
• Ice and medicines (including corticosteroid injections) may also be used to reduce pain and swelling.
• Physical therapy can help increase your range of motion.

If treatment is not helping, surgery is sometimes done to loosen some of the tight tissues around the shoulder.”

http://www.webmd.com/a-to-z-guides/tc/frozen-shoulder-topic-overview