How is frozen shoulder diagnosed?

In daily life, many people frequently engage in heavy physical labor, leading to periarthritis of the shoulder (frozen shoulder), which severely impacts patients’ quality of life and work performance. Therefore, timely treatment is essential. But how is periarthritis of the shoulder diagnosed?

How Is Periarthritis of the Shoulder Diagnosed?

Diagnosis of periarthritis of the shoulder involves the following methods:
1. Palpation: To identify the precise location of pain and assess for muscle atrophy around the shoulder joint. For example, palpating or applying pressure to the area surrounding the deltoid muscle, the biceps brachii and triceps brachii muscles, and the long head of the biceps tendon helps pinpoint tender points.
2. Assessment of shoulder joint range of motion (ROM): This includes evaluating flexion, extension, abduction, internal rotation, and external rotation of the shoulder joint, with measurement and documentation of the angular range for each movement. Both active and passive ROM must be observed to determine whether movement is restricted.

Radiographic (X-ray) examination: This evaluates the width of the glenohumeral joint space for signs of degenerative joint changes or osteophyte formation, and measures the subacromial space to detect possible acromial impingement. Patients should remain relaxed during imaging to avoid excessive muscular tension. Periarthritis of the shoulder commonly affects older adults, primarily due to age-related cumulative stress on the shoulder—excessive activity and overuse leading to microtrauma and degeneration of muscles, tendons, ligaments, and fascia.

Thus, in daily life, it is important to avoid overusing the shoulder joint. A balanced approach—alternating between the left and right shoulders, for instance—can help prevent excessive strain on one side and reduce the risk of developing periarthritis of the shoulder. We hope this information proves helpful!