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What Is Frozen Shoulder?

Frozen shoulder, also known as adhesive capsulitis, is a condition characterized by progressive stiffness and pain in the shoulder joint. It develops when the capsule surrounding the shoulder thickens and tightens, restricting movement.

At HSA, we specialize in diagnosing and treating frozen shoulder in Chicago with a structured, phase-based approach that supports recovery at every stage of the condition.

Frozen shoulder typically progresses through three stages:

  • Freezing Stage: Gradual onset of pain with increasing stiffness.
  • Frozen Stage: Pain may lessen, but shoulder motion becomes significantly restricted.
  • Thawing Stage: Mobility slowly improves over time.

Symptoms of Frozen Shoulder

If you are concerned about frozen shoulder in Chicago, common symptoms include:

  • Shoulder Stiffness: Progressive difficulty lifting, rotating, or reaching overhead.
  • Persistent Pain: Dull or aching pain that may worsen at night.
  • Limited Range of Motion: Reduced ability to perform everyday tasks such as dressing or grooming.
  • Pain with Movement: Discomfort during even simple shoulder motions.
  • Gradual Onset: Symptoms that develop slowly and worsen over time.
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Diagnosis

Our specialists at HSA use a comprehensive evaluation process to diagnose frozen shoulder in Chicago. Your assessment may include:

  • A detailed physical examination to evaluate motion limitations
  • Review of your medical history and symptom progression
  • Imaging, such as X-rays or MRI scans, to rule out other conditions

Because frozen shoulder can mimic other shoulder disorders, an accurate diagnosis is essential to guide the most effective treatment strategy.

Treatments for Frozen Shoulder

At HSA, we provide a full spectrum of treatment options tailored to the stage and severity of your condition.

Non-surgical treatments

  • Physical Therapy: Guided stretching and mobility exercises designed to restore range of motion and reduce stiffness gradually.
  • Anti-Inflammatory Medications: Oral medications to reduce inflammation and ease discomfort.
  • Corticosteroid Injections: Targeted injections to decrease inflammation and improve movement.
  • Activity Modification: Adjustments to daily activities to prevent worsening stiffness.

Minimally invasive treatments

  • Ultrasound-Guided Injections: Precise delivery of medication to the joint capsule for improved symptom relief.
  • Hydrodilatation: A procedure that gently expands the joint capsule to improve mobility in select cases.

Surgical treatments

  • Arthroscopic Capsular Release: A minimally invasive procedure to carefully release tight portions of the joint capsule when conservative treatments have not provided sufficient improvement.
     Manipulation Under Anesthesia: Controlled movement of the shoulder to improve motion in appropriate cases.

Our goal is always to begin with conservative care whenever possible and escalate treatment only when necessary.

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Why Choose HSA?

For frozen shoulder treatment in Chicago, HSA offers specialized orthopedic expertise with a patient-centered focus. Our board-certified physicians understand the complex progression of adhesive capsulitis and provide customized treatment plans aligned with your stage of recovery.

We combine advanced diagnostic tools, non-surgical therapies, and surgical precision to help restore shoulder mobility safely and effectively.

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Patient-centered care

Your comfort, goals, and long-term recovery remain our priority. We take the time to explain your diagnosis, outline realistic expectations, and develop a treatment plan that fits your lifestyle. From your first appointment through your recovery process, our team is committed to guiding you with clarity and compassion.

If you are experiencing persistent shoulder stiffness or pain, do not delay evaluation. Contact HSA today to schedule an appointment and begin your path toward restored shoulder mobility..

Areas We Serve

Hand to Shoulder Associates proudly provides frozen shoulder treatment throughout Chicago and surrounding communities, including:

  • Chicago, IL
  • Alsip, IL
  • Bolingbrook, IL
  • Elmhurst, IL
  • Libertyville, IL
  • Arlington Heights, IL

No matter where you are located, our team is dedicated to delivering expert care that supports your recovery and quality of life.

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Rotator Cuff Tear FAQ

How long does frozen shoulder last?

Can frozen shoulder resolve without surgery?

What causes frozen shoulder?

Is frozen shoulder the same as a rotator cuff tear?

When should I see a specialist for frozen shoulder?

How long does frozen shoulder last?

Frozen shoulder can last from several months to over a year, depending on severity and timing of treatment. Early diagnosis and structured therapy often help improve recovery time.

Can frozen shoulder resolve without surgery?

Yes. Many patients improve with non-surgical treatment such as physical therapy, anti-inflammatory medications, and corticosteroid injections. Surgery is typically reserved for cases that do not respond to conservative care.

What causes frozen shoulder?

Frozen shoulder may develop after injury, surgery, or prolonged shoulder immobility. It is also more common in individuals with diabetes, thyroid disorders, or other metabolic conditions.

Is frozen shoulder the same as a rotator cuff tear?

No. Frozen shoulder involves thickening and tightening of the shoulder joint capsule, leading to stiffness. A rotator cuff tear involves tendon damage. Accurate diagnosis is important because treatment approaches differ.

When should I see a specialist for frozen shoulder?

If shoulder pain and stiffness persist for several weeks, worsen over time, or interfere with daily activities, evaluation by an orthopedic specialist is recommended.

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