What is adhesive capsulitis?

A body in motion tends to stay in motion, and a body at rest tends to stay at rest. Such is the case with your shoulder and a condition called adhesive capsulitis. Adhesive capsulitis is more commonly known as frozen shoulder, and with good reason: It can render your shoulder so stiff, it's almost impossible to button your shirt -- that is, if you aren't in too much pain to get dressed in the first place.

Adhesive capsulitis is an inflammatory condition that restricts motion in a joint. It most often affects the shoulder joint, a condition called frozen shoulder syndrome.

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 physical therapy or with surgery if needed.