Adhesive capsulitis of shoulder
Adhesive capsulitis, commonly known as frozen shoulder, is a condition where the shoulder joint becomes stiff, painful, and very difficult to move.
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Your shoulder is a ball-and-socket joint surrounded by a capsule, which is a strong, stretchy layer of tissue that holds the bones together. When you have adhesive capsulitis, this capsule becomes inflamed, or irritated and swollen, and develops thick bands of scar tissue.
As this tissue tightens, the shoulder joint has less space to move, making it feel like it is 'frozen' in place. While it can be quite frustrating and painful, it is a condition that usually improves over time with the right care and patience.
Common Symptoms
- A dull or aching pain deep in the shoulder or the upper arm.
- Increased pain when trying to sleep on the affected side.
- A noticeable loss of range of motion, meaning you cannot lift your arm as high or rotate it as easily as you used to.
- A feeling that the shoulder is 'stuck' or locked in place during simple movements like reaching for a shelf or putting on a coat.