Frozen shoulder doesn’t develop overnight, and it rarely happens without a reason. Whether you’re already dealing with shoulder stiffness or are trying to avoid long-term shoulder pain, understanding the root causes and risk factors of frozen shoulder can help you make informed decisions about your care.
At Dr. Neil Singh’s orthopedic practice in New Castle, PA, we specialize in personalized, minimally invasive treatments for shoulder conditions, including frozen shoulder, also known as adhesive capsulitis. If you're noticing progressive pain or stiffness in your shoulder, we’re here to help you find answers and lasting relief.
Let’s take a closer look at the reasons behind frozen shoulder and how our expert team can guide your recovery.
What Is Frozen Shoulder? Understanding the Stages
Frozen shoulder, medically known as adhesive capsulitis, is a condition that causes pain, stiffness, and limited motion in the shoulder joint. It develops when the capsule of connective tissue that surrounds the shoulder joint becomes inflamed and thickened, restricting movement.
The condition typically progresses in three stages:
- Freezing Stage – Gradual onset of pain and increasing stiffness. Range of motion becomes more limited.
- Frozen Stage – Pain may begin to lessen, but stiffness remains severe, making daily tasks difficult.
- Thawing Stage – Slow improvement in range of motion and a gradual return of shoulder function.
Each stage can last several months, and the entire cycle may take up to 2–3 years without treatment.
Common Causes of Frozen Shoulder
While frozen shoulder may seem to appear without warning, certain underlying triggers often contribute to its development. Some of the most common frozen shoulder causes include:
- Shoulder Injury or Surgery: Trauma, fractures, or post-surgical recovery can lead to shoulder immobilization. Lack of movement for extended periods increases the risk of developing adhesive capsulitis.
- Prolonged Immobilization: Even without injury, keeping the shoulder still for too long—such as wearing a sling—can limit mobility and encourage capsule thickening.
- Chronic Inflammation: Inflammatory conditions such as arthritis or rotator cuff tendinitis can alter the joint’s natural movement, contributing to stiffness over time.
These factors often set the stage for restricted movement, which is the primary trigger for frozen shoulder development.
Who’s Most at Risk? Key Risk Factors to Know
While anyone can develop frozen shoulder, certain groups are more susceptible. Recognizing your risk level can help you act early if symptoms arise.
- Age (40–60): Most patients diagnosed with frozen shoulder are between 40 and 60 years old.
- Diabetes: One of the strongest known risk factors. People with diabetes are significantly more likely to develop adhesive capsulitis.
- Thyroid Disorders: Hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism are also linked to increased risk.
- Previous Shoulder Surgery or Injury: Post-operative or post-traumatic immobilization heightens the chance of frozen shoulder.
- Gender: Women are more frequently affected than men.
If you fall into one or more of these categories and are experiencing symptoms, it’s important to consult a shoulder specialist for early evaluation.
Inflammation and Frozen Shoulder: What’s the Connection?
Inflammation is at the heart of frozen shoulder. It’s what causes the thickening and tightening of the shoulder capsule that limits motion. But what leads to that inflammation?
In most cases, it’s the body’s natural response to trauma, injury, or prolonged inactivity. When inflammation isn’t resolved through movement or therapy, scar tissue may develop within the joint capsule. This scarring further restricts mobility and worsens pain over time.
That’s why addressing inflammation early, through appropriate medical care, is critical to successful frozen shoulder therapy and shoulder pain management.
Early Signs of Frozen Shoulder to Watch For
The earlier frozen shoulder is identified, the better the treatment outcomes. Here are some early warning signs to monitor:
- Dull or aching pain in the outer shoulder or upper arm
- Pain that worsens at night or when lying on the affected shoulder
- Noticeable stiffness, especially with overhead motion
- Difficulty reaching behind your back or putting on a jacket
- Gradual loss of range of motion without an obvious injury
If these symptoms persist or worsen, especially in the absence of a specific injury, it may be time to explore adhesive capsulitis treatment.
How Dr. Neil Singh Helps Patients with Frozen Shoulder
At Singh Orthopedics in New Castle, PA, Dr. Neil Singh offers expert, minimally invasive care for patients dealing with frozen shoulder. As a fellowship-trained upper extremity specialist, Dr. Singh has extensive experience in evaluating and treating complex shoulder conditions.
We begin with a thorough physical exam and may recommend diagnostic imaging to confirm the reason for frozen shoulder symptoms. From there, a personalized plan is created to relieve pain and restore function.
Treatment options may include:
- Targeted Injections – To reduce inflammation and relieve pain
- Minimally Invasive Surgical Options – For patients whose frozen shoulder doesn’t improve with conservative measures
- Shoulder Joint Procedures – Including arthroscopic release for severe adhesive capsulitis
Our goal is to restore your mobility while minimizing downtime, and our team is here to support you every step of the way.
Reclaim Your Shoulder Health with Dr. Neil Singh
Frozen shoulder can feel frustrating and limiting—but with expert care, healing is within reach. Understanding the causes and risk factors is the first step toward lasting relief. At Dr. Neil Singh’s practice, we deliver compassionate, advanced care to help patients manage shoulder pain and regain full function.
Looking for answers about frozen shoulder causes or treatment? Request an appointment today or call us directly at 724-656-0086 to schedule a personalized consultation.
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Frequently Asked Questions
WHAT CAUSES FROZEN SHOULDER?
Frozen shoulder, or adhesive capsulitis, is most often caused by inflammation and thickening of the shoulder joint capsule. This can result from injury, surgery, prolonged immobility, or underlying health conditions such as diabetes or thyroid disorders.
WHO IS MOST AT RISK OF DEVELOPING FROZEN SHOULDER?
People between 40–60 years old, women, individuals with diabetes, and those with a history of shoulder surgery or injury have the highest risk. Thyroid disorders can also increase your chances of developing adhesive capsulitis.
CAN FROZEN SHOULDER HAPPEN WITHOUT AN INJURY?
Yes. In some cases, frozen shoulder develops gradually without a clear injury, often due to inflammation, hormonal changes, or periods of reduced shoulder movement.
HOW CAN I PREVENT FROZEN SHOULDER?
Keeping the shoulder joint mobile after an injury or surgery is key. Gentle range-of-motion exercises, physical therapy when recommended, and managing underlying conditions like diabetes can help reduce your risk.
WHEN SHOULD I SEE A DOCTOR FOR FROZEN SHOULDER SYMPTOMS?
If you experience persistent shoulder stiffness, pain at night, or difficulty with daily movements like reaching overhead or behind your back, it’s important to see a shoulder specialist. Early treatment can prevent symptoms from worsening and improve recovery time.
