Idiopathic frozen shoulder

BACKGROUND: Shoulder pain and stiffness affects at least one-quarter of the Australian population, with the primary care physician seeing 95% of these patients. Idiopathic frozen shoulder affects >250,000 Australians, making it a significant burden on both the individual and society. The primary care physician plays a major part in recognising the condition and formulating an evidence-based management plan in conjunction with the physiotherapist.

OBJECTIVE: This article provides the reader with an understanding of the natural history, pathophysiology, phases and clinical features of idiopathic frozen shoulder. It also outlines patients at risk of developing idiopathic frozen shoulder and addresses an evidence-based conservative approach to the management of this condition.

DISCUSSION: The primary care physician plays a pivotal part in the identification and management of idiopathic frozen shoulder, with the vast majority of patients responding to conservative management. A shared care approach with a skilled physiotherapist is essential.