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Category: MusculoskeletalClinical Profile

Frozen Shoulder

Severe, progressive pain and stiffness in the shoulder joint, often appearing virtually overnight.

Biological Mechanism

Adhesive capsulitis (frozen shoulder) involves profound inflammation and stiffening of the shoulder capsule. Estrogen receptors are present in the capsular tissue; a sudden drop in estrogen triggers an inflammatory cascade resulting in fibrosis. The incidence of frozen shoulder peaks dramatically in women exactly at perimenopause.

Common Misdiagnoses

Rotator cuff tear, Bursitis, Arthritis

Evidence-Based Treatments

  • 01Physical therapy

    Essential to prevent permanent loss of range of motion.

  • 02HRT

    While HRT won't 'unfreeze' a shoulder once fibrotic, it may prevent progression or occurrence in the contralateral shoulder.