Adhesive capsulitis is an inflammatory condition that restricts motion in a joint. It most often affects the shoulder joint, a condition called frozen shoulder.
The tissues around the joint stiffen, scar tissue forms, and any shoulder movement becomes difficult and painful. Any shoulder problem, such as an injury or surgery, can lead to frozen shoulder if a person does not move the shoulder through its full range of motion during treatment. Adhesive capsulitis can also be caused by some conditions such as diabetes or a stroke.
Adhesive capsulitis can be treated with over-the-counter pain medicines and physical therapy, and with steroid injections if needed. Surgery is rarely used.