Guide To The Causes And Complications Of A Rotator Cuff Tear

Frozen Shoulder

Frozen shoulder is a potential complication of a rotator cuff tear. The tear itself will not cause frozen shoulder. However, if patients immobilize their shoulder for recovery or avoid moving their shoulder because of the pain, the connective tissue may tighten and thicken. This impedes a patient's range of motion and makes their shoulder feel both stiff and painful. In most cases, the signs start gradually and become worse with time. The condition does tend to resolve rather than causing permanent disability. However, it usually takes one to three years to run its course. Frozen shoulder treatment includes physical therapy, numbing medications, and corticosteroids injected into the joint capsule. In rare and severe cases, a doctor may recommend arthroscopic surgery to loosen the patient's shoulder capsule.