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Patient Questions  /  How long frozen shoulder lasts

Shoulder, Elbow & Hand

How Long Does Frozen Shoulder Last?

Often a long time. Frozen shoulder commonly takes one to three years to run its course, and timing varies a lot from person to person. Most people get much of their movement back, though some stiffness can remain. Treatment can ease pain and help you keep moving along the way.

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The three stages

Frozen shoulder happens when the capsule around the shoulder joint becomes inflamed, then thick and tight. It tends to move through three overlapping stages:

  • Freezing: pain builds, often worse at night, and you slowly lose movement.
  • Frozen: the pain often eases, but the shoulder stays very stiff.
  • Thawing: movement gradually comes back.

It's most common between ages 40 and 60, more common in women, and more likely if you have diabetes or thyroid problems. It can also start after the arm has been kept still, such as after an injury or surgery. Often there is no clear reason at all.

What helps at each stage

  • While it's painful, gentle movement within comfort is better than forcing a stretch. Pushing hard into pain can flare it up.
  • As pain settles, stretching and strengthening can be stepped up to win back movement.
  • Your doctor may offer a steroid injection, which can help with pain, especially early on.
  • Keep using the arm for daily tasks as much as you comfortably can.

Treatment doesn't always make frozen shoulder end sooner, but it can make the journey easier. Many people find they sleep better, use the arm more and get back movement more steadily with a plan in place.

When to see a doctor

See a doctor promptly if you have:

  • Shoulder or arm pain with chest pressure, shortness of breath or sweating: call 911
  • Fever with a hot, red or swollen shoulder
  • Sudden weakness after a fall, where you can't lift your arm
  • Constant pain that doesn't change with movement or position, especially with unexplained weight loss

How physical therapy at ARI can help

A physical therapist matches your treatment to the stage you're in, using hands-on care and exercises to ease pain early and to rebuild movement and strength as the shoulder loosens.

At ARI Physical Therapy in Bakersfield, every visit is one-on-one and in person with a licensed physical therapist, and our clinic director, Deepa Konnur, PT, MPT, OCS, is a board-certified Orthopedic Certified Specialist. We accept most private insurance plans and Medicare, and we have staff who speak Spanish and Hindi.

Read our full guide: Frozen shoulder and rotator cuff pain →

No referral needed to start. In California, you can see a physical therapist directly for up to 12 visits or 45 days, whichever comes first. Some insurance plans still require a referral for coverage; call us at (661) 282-8584 and we'll help you check.

Related questions

Ready to feel better?

Talk to a licensed physical therapist at ARI, one-on-one. Request an evaluation and we'll get back to you, usually within one business day.

Request an EvaluationCall (661) 282-8584

This page is general information, not a diagnosis. If you have symptoms, a licensed clinician should evaluate you.

Clinically reviewed by Deepa Konnur, PT, MPT, OCS, board-certified Orthopedic Certified Specialist · Reviewed October 2026