Diagnosis of Frozen Shoulder
The diagnosis of frozen shoulder is made primarily through a clinical assessment, based on symptoms and physical examination. Because frozen shoulder shares symptoms with other shoulder conditions, it’s important to rule out alternative causes such as rotator cuff injuries or arthritis.
Clinical Evaluation
A healthcare provider will begin by reviewing:
History of symptoms, including when pain started and how movement has changed
Whether the person has had recent injury, surgery, or illness that could have triggered stiffness
Medical history, including diabetes, thyroid disorders, or neurological conditions
Physical Examination
During a physical exam, the doctor will assess:
Range of motion – both active (what the person can do) and passive (what the doctor can move)
Pain levels during movement, particularly overhead and rotational movements
Specific tests to evaluate joint stiffness versus muscle weakness
In frozen shoulder, both active and passive movement are equally restricted, which helps distinguish it from other shoulder problems.
Imaging Tests
Although frozen shoulder is mainly diagnosed clinically, imaging can help rule out other issues:
X-rays – to exclude arthritis or bone abnormalities
Ultrasound – to check for rotator cuff tears or tendon inflammation
MRI – rarely needed but may be used if diagnosis is unclear or to look for alternative pathology
These tests do not confirm frozen shoulder directly but support the diagnosis by excluding other possibilities.
Differential Diagnosis
Conditions with similar symptoms include:
Rotator cuff tear or tendinitis
Shoulder impingement syndrome
Arthritis of the glenohumeral joint
Bursitis
Referred pain from the neck or chest (e.g., cervical radiculopathy or cardiac conditions)
A careful evaluation helps avoid misdiagnosis and ensures the correct treatment plan.
Diagnosis of Frozen Shoulder
A confirmed diagnosis of frozen shoulder allows healthcare professionals to begin targeted treatment, which is essential for recovery and long-term shoulder function.
