Does frozen shoulder cause shoulder stiffness?

The capsule surrounding the shoulder can become irritated and tighter, reducing the joint's available movement. You may notice difficulty lifting the arm, reaching across the body, fastening clothing, or placing the hand behind the back. The restriction can affect movements that someone else helps you perform, not only movements you initiate yourself. Pain commonly accompanies this stiffness, but shoulder stiffness can also come from other joint, tendon, or neurological problems.

A clinician or physiotherapist can compare the shoulder with the other side and identify which directions are limited. Gentle mobility work, performed regularly and within tolerable discomfort, may help preserve function. Use the exercises and pacing advised for you; repeatedly forcing the shoulder can increase irritation. Keep using the arm for light tasks when possible, while avoiding loads that sharply increase symptoms.

Arrange medical assessment if stiffness is worsening, persists, or makes self-care difficult. Seek urgent care after a significant injury if the shoulder looks out of place or the arm is suddenly weak, numb, cold, or unusually pale. Prompt advice is also appropriate when the joint is hot and red, swelling appears, or fever accompanies shoulder symptoms.

Which shoulder movements are restricted in my examination? What home exercises suit my current level of pain? How can I avoid losing function without overloading the joint? When should my progress be reviewed?