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Adhesive Capsulitis

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Mar 3, 2024.

Adhesive capsulitis happens when tissues in your shoulder tighten and swell. The condition is often called frozen shoulder because the swollen tissues cause pain and decrease your shoulder movement.

DISCHARGE INSTRUCTIONS:

Return to the emergency department if:

Contact your healthcare provider if:

Medicines:

Physical therapy

is used to teach you exercises to help improve movement and strength, and to decrease pain.

Stretches to do at home:

Treatment options

The following list of medications are in some way related to or used in the treatment of this condition.

Apply ice as directed:

Ice helps decrease pain and swelling. Apply ice to help ease pain after stretching. Use an ice pack, or put crushed ice in a plastic bag. Cover it with a towel before you apply it to your shoulder. Apply ice for 15 to 20 minutes every hour, or as directed.

Apply heat as directed:

Heat helps relax muscles and may help improve shoulder movement. Use a heat pack, or soak a small towel in warm water. Wring out the extra water before you apply the towel to your shoulder. Apply heat for 20 to 30 minutes every hour, or as directed.

Follow up with your healthcare provider as directed:

Write down your questions so you remember to ask them during your visits.

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The above information is an educational aid only. It is not intended as medical advice for individual conditions or treatments. Talk to your doctor, nurse or pharmacist before following any medical regimen to see if it is safe and effective for you.

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Further information

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