The shoulder is made up of bones, ligaments and tendons that allow the upper arm to move freely. A capsule of connective tissue protects the shoulder joint. However, diabetes, Parkinson's disease, thyroid conditions and heart disease may increase the risk of developing adhesive capsulitis, or frozen shoulder, according to the American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons. In addition, periods of shoulder immobility after surgery or a fracture can increase the risk of developing adhesive capsulitis. This condition is commonly treated conservatively under a doctor's care. Adhesive capsulitis typically develops in three stages.
Pain
According to the Mayo Clinic, pain is the first symptoms associated with adhesive capsulitis. This occurs because the shoulder capsule is beginning to contract and thicken, which can irritate sensory nerves surrounding the shoulder. At this point, a patient should make an appointment to see his doctor to prevent further worsening of pain. The doctor will likely prescribe nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs or inject corticosteroids into the shoulder joints, according to the American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons. Furthermore, performing regular shoulder exercises can preserve the shoulder's range of motion. This stage typically lasts six weeks to nine months.
Stiffness
The shoulder may become stiff in the next stage of adhesive capsulitis. The Mayo Clinic states that pain may begin to subside, but the range of motion of the shoulder decreases significantly. This occurs because the capsule further thickens and contracts, preventing full movement of the shoulder joint. A patient must see his doctor if he has not at this point in the course of adhesive capsulitis. In addition to medication, the doctor will likely recommend physical therapy to help improve the range of motion of the shoulder. Adherence to the recommended exercise program can help improve range of motion of the shoulder. The American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons states that this stage typically lasts four to nine months.
Improvement in Symptoms
The American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons states that shoulder motion begins to improve during the "thawing" stage of adhesive capsulitis. A reduction in pain and an improvement in range of motion characterizes this stage of adhesive capsulitis. Thawing generally lasts five to 26 months. When a patient is no longer experiencing a painful shoulder and range of motion is back to normal, then the patient has fully recovered from adhesive capsulitis.
