How Doctors Diagnose Frozen Shoulder: A Guide for the General Public

What Is Frozen Shoulder?

Frozen shoulder, also called adhesive capsulitis, is a condition that causes pain and stiffness in the shoulder. Over time, the shoulder becomes hard to move. This problem can affect daily activities, such as reaching or lifting. Although it can happen to anyone, it is more common in people aged 40 to 60. Understanding how doctors diagnose frozen shoulder can help you seek the right care early.

Common Symptoms of Frozen Shoulder

Recognizing the signs of frozen shoulder is important. Early symptoms may seem mild, but they often get worse. Here are some common symptoms:

Shoulder pain that gets worse with movement

Stiffness in the shoulder joint

Difficulty raising your arm

Pain that may disturb sleep, especially when lying on the affected side

Loss of shoulder movement over time

Sometimes, these symptoms develop slowly. However, they can last for months or even years if not treated.

Why Accurate Diagnosis Matters

Getting the right diagnosis is very important. Many shoulder problems can look similar. For example, rotator cuff injuries or arthritis may also cause pain and stiffness. Therefore, an accurate diagnosis helps doctors choose the best treatment. It also prevents unnecessary tests or delays in care. According to the CDC, early diagnosis leads to better outcomes for joint problems.

How Doctors Diagnose Frozen Shoulder

Doctors use several steps to diagnose frozen shoulder. Each step helps rule out other causes of shoulder pain. Let’s look at how the process works.

Medical History and Symptom Review

First, your doctor will ask about your symptoms. They may ask questions like:

When did the pain start?

Does anything make the pain better or worse?

Have you had any injuries or surgeries?

Do you have any health conditions, such as diabetes?

By gathering this information, doctors can better understand your shoulder pain and its possible causes.

Physical Examination Techniques

Next, your doctor will examine your shoulder. During the exam, they may:

Check your shoulder’s range of motion

Ask you to move your arm in different directions

Feel for tenderness or swelling

Compare both shoulders for differences

Often, frozen shoulder shows a clear loss of movement, especially when you try to lift your arm. However, pain may limit how much you can move.

Imaging Tests (X-rays, MRI, Ultrasound)

Sometimes, doctors use imaging tests to help with frozen shoulder diagnosis. These tests do not show frozen shoulder directly, but they help rule out other problems. Common tests include:

X-rays: These can show bone problems, such as arthritis or fractures.

MRI: This test gives detailed images of soft tissues, like muscles and tendons.

Ultrasound: This can check for tears or swelling in the shoulder.

Although imaging is not always needed, it can be helpful if the diagnosis is unclear.

Differential Diagnosis: Ruling Out Other Conditions

Doctors must make sure your symptoms are not caused by something else. For example, they may consider:

Rotator cuff injuries

Shoulder arthritis

Bursitis (swelling of the shoulder cushion)

Nerve problems in the neck

By carefully reviewing your history, exam, and test results, doctors can confirm if you have adhesive capsulitis.

When to See an Orthopedic Specialist

If your shoulder pain or stiffness lasts more than a few weeks, it is time to see a doctor. However, if you cannot move your arm at all, seek care right away. An orthopedic evaluation can help find the cause and start treatment. Early care often leads to better results.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can frozen shoulder heal on its own? Sometimes, it gets better without treatment, but it may take years.

Is frozen shoulder the same as arthritis? No, they are different conditions, but both can cause pain and stiffness.

Who is at risk? People with diabetes, thyroid problems, or recent shoulder injuries are at higher risk.

Are imaging tests always needed? Not always. Doctors often diagnose frozen shoulder based on symptoms and exam.

Prevention and Next Steps

While not all cases can be prevented, staying active and moving your shoulder after injuries or surgery can help. If you notice pain or stiffness, do not wait. Early treatment can stop the problem from getting worse. In summary, knowing how doctors diagnose frozen shoulder helps you take control of your health.

If you have persistent shoulder pain or stiffness, consult an orthopedic specialist for personalized diagnosis and treatment.