Overcoming Frozen Shoulder: How Long Will It Take?

If you’re struggling with frozen shoulder (adhesive capsulitis), one of the most common questions you might have is: How long will my recovery take? Understanding the typical timeline of each phase can give you a sense of direction and help you remain patient as you work toward recovery.

Frozen shoulder typically progresses through three distinct phases: Freezing, Frozen, and Thawing. The length of time spent in each phase can vary from person to person, but on average, here’s what you can expect:

Phase 1: The Freezing Phase (6 Weeks to 9 Months)

The freezing phase is often the most painful and frustrating phase. During this time, the shoulder joint becomes inflamed, causing pain and stiffness. You may experience increasing discomfort, particularly when trying to move your arm or during certain activities like reaching or lifting. This phase is marked by a gradual loss of range of motion. The freezing phase typically lasts anywhere from 6 weeks to 9 months, depending on the severity of the condition. While it can be tempting to get frustrated with the pain, it’s important to remember that this is the body’s natural response as it begins the process of healing.

Phase 2: The Frozen Phase (4 to 6 Months)

The frozen phase is marked by stiffness and a significant reduction in the range of motion, though the pain often begins to decrease. During this time, the shoulder feels “locked” in place, and everyday movements (such as brushing your hair or reaching behind your back) can become very challenging. This phase typically signals that the inflammation is subsiding and the body is entering a stage of thickening and scarring of the tissue around the joint. This phase can last anywhere from 4 to 6 months, and sometimes a little longer depending on how the body responds to treatment. While the pain may decrease, the main challenge in this phase is stiffness, making it harder to regain mobility. In this phase, it’s important to stay consistent with your physical therapy exercises to help maintain flexibility and prevent further stiffness.

Phase 3: The Thawing Phase (6 Months to 2 Years)

The thawing phase is when the healing truly begins to take shape. This is when you start to notice a return of mobility in the shoulder, as pain decreases, and stiffness gradually loosens. The thawing phase can feel like a huge relief after months of struggling with pain and immobility. You may find that activities that used to feel impossible become more manageable. The thawing phase can last anywhere from 6 months to 2 years. In this phase, you’re rebuilding strength and mobility, and that requires continued effort and patience. Keep in mind that some stiffness and mild discomfort may persist at this stage, but the worst is behind you!

Factors That Can Affect the Length of Time for Each Phase

While these timeframes provide a general idea of how long each phase of frozen shoulder can last, there are several factors that can influence the duration:

• Severity of the Condition: In some cases, frozen shoulder is more severe, which can extend the time spent in each phase.
• Age and Overall Health: Older adults or those with certain underlying health conditions (like diabetes) may experience longer recovery times.
• Treatment Adherence: Staying consistent with physical therapy, stretches, and other treatments can help speed up recovery. On the other hand, neglecting exercises or pushing too hard can prolong healing.
• Response to Treatment: Some people respond better to treatment than others. If you are following your physical therapy plan, managing inflammation, and staying active within your limits, you’re likely to experience a faster recovery.

Patience Is Key!

It’s natural to feel discouraged when progress seems slow, but understanding that each phase of frozen shoulder has its own timeline can help you stay on track. The journey to recovery isn’t always fast, but each phase brings you closer to a fully healed shoulder. Healing is a process, and every step forward, no matter how small, is a victory. You’ve got this!