Frozen Shoulder (Adhesive Capsulitis)
Frozen shoulder, also called adhesive capsulitis, is a condition that causes pain, stiffness, and significant loss of motion in the shoulder joint. The condition develops gradually as the shoulder capsule becomes inflamed and tight. Physical therapy plays a key role in restoring mobility and helping patients return to normal activities.
Do you feel increasing stiffness in your shoulder that makes it difficult to reach overhead, behind your back, or even perform simple daily tasks? Does the pain worsen at night or interfere with sleep? You may be experiencing frozen shoulder, also known as adhesive capsulitis.
At Rose Physical Therapy in Washington, DC, our physical therapists help patients recover from frozen shoulder through targeted treatment designed to reduce pain, restore mobility, and improve shoulder function.
What Is Frozen Shoulder (Adhesive Capsulitis)?
Frozen shoulder occurs when the capsule surrounding the shoulder joint becomes inflamed, thickened, and tight, limiting the joint's ability to move normally.
The shoulder capsule is a layer of connective tissue that surrounds the glenohumeral joint, the main ball-and-socket joint of the shoulder. When this tissue becomes stiff or develops scar tissue, movement becomes painful and restricted.
The exact cause of adhesive capsulitis is not always clear, but several factors may contribute.
Possible Causes of Frozen Shoulder
Frozen shoulder may develop for several reasons, including:
• Inflammation of the joint lining (synovitis)
• Autoimmune reactions in which the body attacks its own tissues
• Immobilization after injury or surgery, limiting normal movement
• Pain from other shoulder conditions, such as arthritis, rotator cuff tears, bursitis, or tendinitis
• Previous trauma to the shoulder
These factors can lead to reduced movement over time, allowing scar tissue and stiffness to develop within the shoulder capsule.
Symptoms of Frozen Shoulder
Most individuals with adhesive capsulitis experience a gradual increase in pain and stiffness.
Common symptoms include:
• Persistent shoulder pain
• Stiffness that limits movement in multiple directions
• Difficulty reaching overhead or behind the back
• Pain that worsens at night
• Pain triggered by sudden movement or bumps to the shoulder
• Reduced ability to perform daily activities such as dressing or lifting objects
The Stages of Frozen Shoulder
Frozen shoulder typically progresses through several stages, each with different symptoms and recovery goals.
Stage 1: Pre-Freezing Stage (Months 1–3)
• Sharp pain with shoulder movement
• Deep aching pain, especially during sleep
• Early loss of external rotation (turning the arm outward)
Stage 2: Freezing Stage (Months 3–9)
• Increasing stiffness and reduced shoulder mobility
• Continued or worsening pain, often worse at night
• Difficulty performing everyday activities
Stage 3: Frozen Stage (Months 9–14)
• Severe limitation in shoulder movement
• Stiffness becomes the dominant symptom
• Pain may occur even without movement
Stage 4: Thawing Stage (Months 12–15)
• Gradual reduction in pain
• Improved sleep and daily function
• Slow but steady return of shoulder mobility
Recovery timelines vary depending on the severity of stiffness and how early treatment begins.
How Physical Therapy Helps Frozen Shoulder
At Rose Physical Therapy, the goal of treatment is to restore shoulder mobility and help patients return to normal daily activities.
After evaluating your condition and identifying the stage of frozen shoulder, your physical therapist will develop an individualized treatment program.
Treatment may include:
Pain Management and Maintaining Motion (Early Stages)
• Gentle mobility exercises to maintain available motion
• Manual therapy techniques to reduce stiffness
• Heat or ice to help relax muscles and reduce discomfort
• A customized home exercise program designed to prevent additional motion loss
Aggressive stretching is typically avoided during early stages because it may increase pain.
Restoring Range of Motion (Middle Stages)
As pain begins to decrease, therapy focuses on improving shoulder mobility.
Treatment may include:
• Progressive stretching exercises
• Manual therapy techniques to improve tissue flexibility
• Strengthening exercises for the shoulder and surrounding muscles
• Updated home exercises that support continued mobility improvements
Return to Normal Function (Late Stages)
In the final stage of recovery, therapy focuses on restoring full function.
Treatment may include:
• Targeted stretching for remaining mobility restrictions
• Strength training for the shoulder and upper body
• Functional movement training for daily tasks and activities
• Activity-specific guidance for work, hobbies, or sports
Frozen Shoulder Treatment in Washington, DC
Frozen shoulder can be frustrating and slow to resolve, but proper rehabilitation can significantly improve recovery. At Rose Physical Therapy, our experienced clinicians provide personalized care designed to help restore shoulder movement and reduce pain.
If frozen shoulder is limiting your ability to move comfortably, schedule an evaluation at Rose Physical Therapy in Washington, DC.
Our clinics are conveniently located in:
Farragut North
Friendship Heights
Navy Yard
Early treatment can help improve shoulder mobility, reduce discomfort, and support a safe return to your normal activities.