What Is a Frozen Shoulder?
Reviewed: Dr. Gromatzky
8. Complications and Prognosis
The main complication reported by patients is the residual stiffness and pain despite healing. There are several reports stating most patients may continue to experience stiffness and/or pain for up to 3 years with conservative treatment. The prognosis for frozen shoulder is good as it is a self-limiting condition that can be managed using physical therapy and usually resolves within 1 to 3 years.
In patients with diabetes, there has been no difference in disability and pain reported compared to nondiabetics. Long-term disability has been reported in as many as 15% of patients, persistent symptoms in 40%, and permanent functional loss in 7% to 15%.
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