For most people, frozen shoulder improves with time and movement returns, but recovery is slow. Treatment can ease pain and help you keep moving while the shoulder recovers.
How long does recovery take?
Frozen shoulder moves through three overlapping stages: freezing, frozen and thawing. In total it can last up to about 36 months (3 years), although many people recover sooner, especially with treatment. Read more in our guide to the symptoms and stages of frozen shoulder.
Is frozen shoulder 100% curable?
In our experience, most people recover well, and most do not need surgery. Some are left with a little residual stiffness, but most patients are not bothered by it and often do not notice it. The people most likely to notice are those who use their shoulder through its full range of motion, such as competitive tennis players.
Frozen shoulder can also affect the other shoulder, particularly in people with diabetes.
What helps recovery?
- Keeping the shoulder moving gently within a comfortable range
- Treatment to control pain, so that exercises are possible
- Treating related conditions such as diabetes
- Seeing a specialist if progress is slow
Our dos and don’ts for a frozen shoulder and 5 exercises you can do at home are a good place to start. If you are wondering who to see, read which doctor to see for a frozen shoulder.
When should you worry?
See a doctor if:
- Pain and stiffness have lasted more than a few weeks without improving
- Night pain is stopping you from sleeping
- You cannot manage everyday tasks such as dressing or washing your hair
- You have diabetes and your shoulder has become stiff and painful
- Your arm feels weak, numb or tingly, or the pain began after a fall or injury
See frozen shoulder treatment in Singapore for the options available.
Book a consultation
Dr Christopher Liu is a pain physician at Alleviate Pain Clinic, Farrer Park Hospital. Call 8655 5722 or WhatsApp us to book.
This article gives general information and is not a substitute for medical advice.
