Frozen Shoulder (Adhesive Capsulitis)
If your shoulder has become stiff, painful, and harder to move over time, you may be experiencing frozen shoulder—a common condition that can severely limit your daily function.
At Carolina Shoulder, Dr. Michael Sirignano provides expert care to help reduce pain, restore mobility, and get your shoulder moving again.
What Is Frozen Shoulder?
Frozen shoulder, also known as adhesive capsulitis, is a condition where the tissue surrounding the shoulder joint becomes thickened and tight. Over time, this restricts movement and causes stiffness and pain.
It typically develops slowly and progresses through stages, but with proper treatment, most patients regain full function.
Common Symptoms
- Gradual onset of shoulder stiffness and pain
- Trouble lifting your arm overhead or reaching behind your back
- Pain that worsens at night or when lying on the affected side
- Decreased range of motion that doesn’t improve with rest
- Difficulty performing daily tasks like dressing or driving
Who Is at Risk?
Frozen shoulder most commonly affects adults between the ages of 40 and 60. The National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases (NIAMS) reports that 2-5% of the general population experience frozen shoulder, with those having diabetes facing up to a 20% higher risk.
Risk factors include:
- Prolonged shoulder immobility (due to injury, surgery, or illness)
- Diabetes or thyroid conditions
- Previous shoulder injuries
- Sedentary lifestyle or limited arm use
How Is Frozen Shoulder Diagnosed?
Dr. Sirignano will start with a full physical examination and discuss your symptoms and history. Diagnosis may include:
- Range of motion testing
- X-rays to rule out arthritis or other conditions
- MRI (in rare cases) to evaluate the joint capsule and surrounding tissues
Treatment Options
Non-Surgical Treatment (Most Common):
- Anti-inflammatory medications
- Guided physical therapy and stretching
- Home exercise programs
- Cortisone injections to reduce inflammation
Research from the University of Washington Medicine indicates that 70-90% of patients experience significant improvement with these conservative treatments.
Surgical Treatment (Rare Cases):
If conservative care fails, arthroscopic capsular release may be recommended to restore joint mobility. Dr. Sirignano uses minimally invasive techniques to promote faster recovery and better long-term outcomes.
What to Expect During Recovery
Frozen shoulder often improves over several months, especially with consistent stretching and physical therapy.
Dr. Sirignano will guide you through each stage of recovery, adjusting your care plan based on your mobility and pain level.
Recovery is gradual, but with the right plan, full shoulder function is possible.
Why Choose Carolina Shoulder?
- Fellowship-trained shoulder and elbow surgeon
- Personalized, one-on-one care plans
- Emphasis on restoring function, not just relieving pain.
- Care tailored to your activity level and lifestyle
Ready to Get Moving Again?
Frozen shoulder is treatable—and the sooner you start, the sooner you’ll regain freedom of motion.
Let Carolina Shoulder help you take the next step.