Health Connect – November Edition 

Frozen shoulder is a common cause of shoulder pain in the community and is characterized by shoulder pain, joint stiffness and restricted range of motion. It can last from weeks to months.

Frozen shoulder can be broadly classified into primary or secondary. In primary frozen shoulder, there is no known cause but is commonly associated with other medical issues such as diabetes, thyroid disease and more. In secondary frozen shoulder, there is usually a history of prior shoulder injuries such as bone or tendon injuries.

The diagnosis of frozen shoulder is primarily a clinical one, based on the clinical history and physical examination. Nonetheless, imaging is routinely performed in patients who present with shoulder pain to assess for other conditions that can cause shoulder pain.

The management of frozen shoulder is dependent on several factors including severity of symptoms, patient’s characteristics, goals etc. Common non-surgical management techniques include physiotherapy and medications. Surgical intervention is also done for some. Do speak to your healthcare provider for further information regarding this.

Disclaimer: All content in this publication is for informational and educational purposes only. It does not constitute any form of medical advice or clinical care nor is it intended to be a substitute for professional medical care. Please speak to your healthcare provider if you have any questions pertaining to your healthcare.