The cause of frozen shoulder is still unknown but is found more often in those with diabetes, those between 40 and 60 years of age, those with heart disease or after a shoulder injury or operation. There are three main phases to this condition with the first being the ‘freezing’ stage where the shoulder is very painful without any exact reason for this pain and there is gradual loss of shoulder movement. The second stage is the ‘frozen’ stage where there is a lot of stiffness and reduced movement of the shoulder but with less pain. The final stage is the ‘thawing’ phase where the shoulder gradually increases its range of movement. This condition is self-limiting and usually runs its course between 12 months to 2 years. In this time physiotherapy can be very beneficial to restore movement and function, decrease pain levels and help to guide management of this condition. The main symptoms associated with frozen shoulder are a dull or aching pain in your affected shoulder, which is often worse at night or when you move your shoulder joint. Another symptom is stiffness around your shoulder joint that may stop you from moving your shoulder normally. This can make it difficult to do everyday tasks such as driving or dressing yourself.