What is Frozen Shoulder?

Frozen Shoulder (adhesive capsulitis, scapulohumeral periarthritis) is a condition in which the shoulder joint capsule becomes inflamed, thickens, and contracts, leading to significant restriction of mobility and severe pain.

The disease affects 2-5% of the population, more commonly women aged 40-60 years. Without treatment, the "frozen" state can last 1 to 3 years, significantly reducing quality of life. In 20-50% of patients, full mobility is not restored even after years.

Three phases of the disease:

  • "Freezing" phase (2-9 months) — increasing pain, gradual restriction of movement
  • "Frozen" phase (4-12 months) — pain decreases, but stiffness is maximal
  • "Thawing" phase (5-24 months) — slow restoration of mobility

Risk factors:

  • Diabetes mellitus (5 times higher risk)
  • Thyroid diseases
  • Immobilization of the shoulder after injury or surgery
  • Female gender, age 40-60 years
  • Heart diseases, stroke

Facts about Frozen Shoulder

  • ICD-10: M75.0
  • Prevalence: 2-5% of the population
  • Gender: women 2-4 times more often
  • Age: 40-60 years
  • In diabetes: up to 20% of patients
  • Duration: 1-3 years without treatment

Symptoms of Frozen Shoulder

Pain syndrome

  • Deep aching pain in the shoulder
  • Sharp pain on attempted movement
  • Severe nighttime pain (impossible to sleep on the side)
  • Pain radiates into the arm to the elbow

Restricted mobility

  • Unable to raise arm overhead
  • Limited external rotation (combing hair)
  • Limited internal rotation (fastening bra)
  • Movements restricted both actively and passively

Impact on Life

  • Unable to dress independently
  • Difficulties with hygiene
  • Inability to work (for many professions)
  • Sleep disturbances
  • Depression and anxiety

Traditional Treatment vs regenerative treatment

Criterion Physiotherapy + Injections Arthroscopic Release Regenerative treatment
Principle Stretching of capsule + pain relief Surgical incision of capsule Regeneration of capsule, elimination of fibrosis and inflammation
Anesthesia None (local for injections) General No anesthesia
Speed of Results Months to years Fast, but requires rehabilitation Weeks — improvement from first procedure
Elimination of Cause ❌ Symptomatic only Partial — mechanical incision ✅ Tissue regeneration, elimination of fibrosis
Risk of Recurrence High 10-20% Low — tissue restored
Rehabilitation Prolonged 6-12 weeks intensive physical therapy Minimal — days

How regenerative treatment treats Frozen Shoulder

01

Capsule Visualization

MRI and dynamic ultrasound (Ultrasound guidance) assess the degree of capsule thickening and fibrosis, condition of the rotator cuff and biceps tendon. Areas of maximum adhesions are identified.

02

Obtaining Concentrates

CGF — powerful anti-inflammatory factors and growth factors. MFAT — stem cells with anti-fibrotic action capable of breaking down adhesions and restoring normal capsule structure.

03

Intra-articular Injection

Under Ultrasound guidance guidance, concentrates are injected into the joint cavity, thickened capsule areas (especially axillary recess and rotator interval), and subacromial space.

04

Capsule Remodeling

Stem cells initiate remodeling process: elimination of fibrosis, restoration of capsule elasticity, reduction of inflammation. Mobility begins to improve within just a few days after the procedure.

Why regenerative treatment is effective for Frozen Shoulder

Frozen Shoulder — capsule fibrosis: elastic tissue is replaced by scar tissue. Traditionally — wait 1-3 years or arthroscopic release. Regenerative treatment offers a biological solution: stem cells suppress myofibroblasts (responsible for fibrosis), matrix metalloproteinases break down excess collagen, anti-inflammatory factors interrupt the vicious cycle. Mobility is restored in weeks, not years.

Regenerative method Advantages

A broad range of indications

Regenerative methods are used for many orthopaedic and spinal conditions. Some cases still call for surgery.

No anesthesia or incisions

Outpatient treatment via 0.3-1.5 mm puncture. No general anesthesia or hospitalization.

No age restrictions

Regeneration at any age. Safe for chronic conditions and anesthesia intolerance.

Rapid improvement

Concentrates have analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties. Relief within days.

Multiple zones at once

Simultaneous treatment of multiple discs or joints in one procedure.

Home the same day

No crutches, braces or rehabilitation needed. MRI follow-up at 8-16 weeks.

Regenerative treatment Technology

Navigation system for minimally invasive access

Navigation system

Intraoperative robotic navigation system. Provides precise access to deep structures with 1 mm and 1 degree accuracy.

Ultrasound guidance during the procedure

Ultrasound guidance

Device for intervention under sonographic control. Eliminates open surgeries with real-time visual monitoring.

Frequently Asked Questions about Frozen Shoulder Treatment

How quickly will mobility be restored?
Most patients report improved mobility within the first few days after the procedure due to its anti-inflammatory effect. Complete capsular remodeling takes 4-8 weeks. Compare this with natural "thawing," which lasts 5-24 months.
I have diabetes — is regenerative treatment right for me?
Yes, and this is especially important because frozen shoulder is more severe and prolonged in diabetic patients. Stem cells and growth factors from your own body are safe in diabetes and provide additional anti-inflammatory effects that are beneficial for diabetic complications.
Can frozen shoulder return?
After regenerative treatment, the risk of recurrence is significantly lower than with conservative treatment, thanks to complete capsular remodeling. However, if risk factors are present (diabetes, thyroid disease), preventive monitoring is recommended.

Clinic and method matching — free of charge

Describe your case and attach your MRI report. We will identify clinics that use the relevant methods and forward your request to them. No obligation; we reply within two working days.

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