Frozen shoulder, also known as adhesive capsulitis, is a condition that causes pain, stiffness, and eventually a significant loss of movement in the shoulder. It’s something I see regularly in my clinic, and while it can be frustrating to deal with, understanding the stages of frozen shoulder can help you know what to expect and how to manage it.
Let’s break it down into the four stages this condition typically follows, starting with the earliest signs.
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Stage 1: The Freezing Stage
The first stage is often referred to as the freezing stage. This is when the shoulder starts to become painful, particularly with movement, and you may notice a gradual loss of mobility. At this point, the shoulder capsule, essentially the structure that surrounds the joint becomes inflamed, leading to discomfort and stiffness.
For many people, this stage is the most uncomfortable. You might find it difficult to sleep on the affected side, and everyday tasks like reaching for something on a shelf or putting on a jacket can become challenging. This phase can last anywhere from six weeks to nine months, depending on the individual.
Stage 2: The Frozen Stage
As the name suggests, the frozen stage is when the shoulder becomes particularly stiff. Interestingly, the pain from the earlier stage may start to ease off slightly, but the restricted movement becomes more noticeable.
During this stage, the inflammation in the capsule reduces, but the tissue inside has thickened and tightened, making it harder for the joint to move freely. You may feel like your shoulder is "stuck," and no amount of stretching or effort seems to improve its mobility. This stage typically lasts for around four to six months, though it can vary.
Stage 3: The Thawing Stage
The thawing stage is when things start to improve and mobility begins to return. At this point, the tightness in the shoulder capsule gradually loosens, and you may notice that you’re able to perform movements that were impossible a few weeks earlier.
This phase tends to be more gradual than the earlier stages, and while the progress can feel slow, it’s a good sign that your shoulder is on the road to recovery. Pain is often minimal during this stage, and you’ll likely feel more confident using your shoulder again. For most people, this phase lasts between six months to two years, though some recover sooner.
Remember, everyone's body is different, so don't put pressure on your body to recover quickly. There are ways you you can seek support with your frozen shoulder if it's affecting your day-to-day and the things you love doing most.
Stage 4: Full Recovery
The final stage is, of course, full recovery. By this point, the inflammation has subsided, the shoulder capsule has returned to a more normal state, and mobility is restored. While it’s not unusual to have some lingering stiffness or weakness, many people regain full use of their shoulder and can return to their usual activities without difficulty.
Recovery from frozen shoulder can take time; it’s not uncommon for the entire process to span 18 to 24 months. However, with the right treatment and support, you can minimise the impact it has on your life and ensure the best possible outcome.
What Can You Do If You Have A Frozen Shoulder?
The good news is that there are several ways to manage frozen shoulder and support your recovery. Physiotherapy plays a key role in improving mobility and reducing stiffness during the frozen and thawing stages. A structured exercise programme tailored to your condition can help gently stretch and strengthen the shoulder as it heals.
Pain management is also important, especially in the early freezing stage. Anti-inflammatory medications or even a corticosteroid injection may help reduce discomfort and allow you to engage more actively in your physiotherapy.
For the small percentage of people who don’t respond to non-surgical treatments, surgery can be an option to release the tight capsule and restore movement. However, most people recover well without needing surgery.
Final Thoughts
Frozen shoulder can be a long and frustrating journey, but understanding its stages helps you anticipate what’s to come and take proactive steps to manage your symptoms. Whether you’re just starting to notice the early signs of pain and stiffness or you’re well into the frozen stage, the key is to stay patient and follow a treatment plan that’s right for you.
If you’re struggling with frozen shoulder or any other shoulder condition, I’d be happy to help. We can work on getting you back to the activities you love, pain-free and with confidence.
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