Frozen shoulder

Also called: Adhesive capsulitis

Frozen shoulder is a gradual, painful stiffening of the shoulder joint capsule. It is more common in people aged 40–60 and in those with diabetes or thyroid conditions. It moves through painful, stiff and thawing phases — physiotherapy shortens the journey and protects the movement you have.

Typical course: 12–20 sessions over several months — your physio confirms your personal plan after the first assessment.

Common signs

Deep, aching shoulder pain, often worse at night
Progressive loss of movement — reaching overhead or behind the back becomes hard
Difficulty with dressing, combing hair or fastening clothing

Common causes

Often develops without a clear trigger
More common with diabetes and thyroid disorders
Can follow shoulder injury or surgery when the arm is kept still too long

How physiotherapy helps

Phase-appropriate treatment — gentle in the painful phase, progressive stretching in the stiff phase
Joint mobilisation to maintain and regain range
A home movement plan matched to your stage
Guidance on pain-friendly ways to keep using the arm

See a doctor first if…

Shoulder pain with fever or feeling unwell
Pain after a fall with sudden loss of movement
A hot, red, swollen joint

Get a personalised assessment

A guide can explain — only an assessment can tell you what applies to you. Every physio on PhysioDekho is credential-verified.

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This guide is general education, not medical advice, and is no substitute for assessment by a qualified professional. If any warning sign above applies to you, contact a doctor before starting physiotherapy. Full medical disclaimer.