What a frozen shoulder is

Frozen shoulder

A frozen shoulder is a shoulder that becomes stiff and painful, so it is hard to lift or turn the arm. The tissue around the joint tightens and thickens over time.

It often starts with a slow ache, then loses movement, making tasks like combing hair or reaching a back pocket difficult.

This matters because it can last many months and disturb sleep and daily use of the arm.

A frozen shoulder often settles on its own, though slowly. Physiotherapy does not force it open, but it does help keep the joint moving and ease the discomfort.

At home our physiotherapist guides gentle stretches and controlled movement to protect range and reduce stiffness. We match the exercises to the stage of the shoulder, so progress is steady and not painful.