Find Treatment Fast for Frozen Shoulder in Arizona

Frozen shoulder — or adhesive capsulitis — is characterized by limited movement in the shoulder brought on by the formation of scar tissue or the stiffening of the tissues in the shoulder. Often, diagnostic imaging studies cannot find a structural problem or specific cause. Fortunately, frozen shoulder usually responds to treatment and may be preventable. 

Frozen Shoulder Treatment at Dignity Health

At Dignity Health, we offer a range of technologically advanced and innovative therapies for shoulder injuries and conditions, including frozen shoulder, in Arizona. Our goal is to reduce your pain and improve your shoulder’s functioning to help you get back to doing what you love as quickly as possible. We also offer nutritional counseling and orthopedic physical therapy to help you heal and prevent future shoulder injuries. 

Find a Doctor with our online tool or call (877) 634-0285 to make an appointment with an orthopedic expert who treats frozen shoulder at one of our Arizona locations: 

• Chandler Regional Medical Center
• St. Joseph's Hospital and Medical Center
• Mercy Gilbert Medical Center
• St. Joseph’s Westgate Medical Center

Frozen shoulder progresses through three stages — freezing, frozen, and thawed. It is important to diagnose the condition and start treatment as early in the process as possible. If you begin physical therapy in the freezing stage, you may be able to avoid the frozen stage. Frozen shoulder usually goes away on its own after about two years, even without treatment.

Frozen Shoulder Symptoms

Frozen shoulder can come on gradually. Early symptoms include, pain, stiffness, and decreased range of motion. Frozen shoulder usually affects only one shoulder, not both.

What Causes Frozen Shoulder?

Frozen shoulder occurs when the fibrous tissues of the non-bony parts of the shoulder joint (the capsule) become thick and stiff. Meanwhile, adhesions, or bands of tissue, form and stick to other structures in the shoulder. People with frozen shoulder often have less lubricating fluid (s)ynovial fluid in the affected shoulder joint. Doctors don’t know what causes these problems to occur in the shoulder.

Certain factors can increase your risk of developing frozen shoulder, including:

• Problems with the cervical discs in the neck
• Medical conditions, including Parkinson’s disease, diabetes, and thyroid problems 
• Hormonal changes during menopause
• Shoulder immobilization, such as wearing a sling for a long period of time after a shoulder fracture
• Certain surgeries, including shoulder surgery and open heart surgery 

Dignity Health offers exceptional treatment for frozen shoulder in Arizona.