Clinically called “Adhesive Capsulitis,” a frozen shoulder is an extremely painful condition in which the shoulder is completely or partially unmovable. Adhesive Capsulitis may be caused by an underlying problem, such as a rotator cuff tear or bursitis, which may cause the body’s immune system to mistake a wound for a foreign body and attack the shoulder joint. However, researchers have yet to pinpoint an exact cause for the condition, and it may happen seemingly spontaneously. Resolution of the problem can take in excess of one year.
Image courtesy of Grant's Atlas of Anatomy
Causes and Risk Factors
Causes
Trauma to shoulder joint
Diabetes
Immobilization for an extended period of time
UnknownRisk Factors
Trauma, surgery, diabetes and middle age. Women seem to be at a greater risk for this problem.
Last updated: Aug-27-07
