Frozen Shoulder Recovery Timeline
Frozen shoulder follows a predictable recovery pattern, but the timeline can stretch out if the condition is misdiagnosed or managed incorrectly. Most people move through three stages — each with its own symptoms, challenges, and treatment focus.
In general, each stage lasts around 6–12 months, with the total recovery often spanning 18 months to 3 years. Some people improve sooner with the right diagnosis and stage-appropriate treatment.
This page outlines what typically happens in each stage and what influences how quickly you recover.
For personalised assessment and treatment, book an appointment at Perth Shoulder Physio — frozen shoulder is one of our core areas of expertise.
Stage 1 — Freezing Stage (6–12 months)
What’s happening
The shoulder capsule becomes inflamed, causing significant pain and a gradual loss of movement, especially in rotation and overhead reach.
Common symptoms
- Worsening aching pain at rest and night
- Sleep disturbance
- Sudden spikes or “catches” of pain with certain movements
- Movement becoming stiffer week by week
What this stage feels like
Patients often describe this as the most painful part of the condition.
Daily tasks like dressing, reaching into the car or turning over in bed can become difficult.
What helps in this stage
- Pain-relief strategies (manual therapy, medication, ice or heat)
- Gentle, pain-free mobility work
- Avoiding aggressive stretching (it often makes things worse)
- Education about prognosis and activity pacing
- Guided glenohumeral joint cortisone injection
Learn more about frozen shoulder injection options here.
Expected progress
Pain gradually worsens over months, and your overall range decreases.
The goal during this stage is pain control, not increasing mobility.
Stage 2 — Frozen Stage (6–12 months)
What’s happening
Pain begins to settle as the inflammation decreases, but the joint capsule remains tight — making the shoulder very stiff.
Common symptoms
- Markedly reduced movement
- Pain improving, especially at night
- Shoulder feels “blocked” or “stuck”
- Function limited, but pain more manageable
What this stage feels like
Daily pain is usually lower, but stiffness is now the biggest problem. Many people notice improved sleep but frustration with restricted motion.
What helps in this stage
- Strengthening within a comfortable range
- Gentle mobility exercises
- Manual therapy to support mobility
- Consistent, stage-appropriate home program
Learn more about other frozen shoulder treatment options here.
Expected progress
Slow but steady improvement in movement.
Activities become easier but may still feel limited.
Stage 3 — Thawing Stage (6–12 months)
What’s happening
The shoulder capsule begins to loosen, allowing movement to return.
Common symptoms
- Much less pain
- Range of motion improving
- Strength gradually returning
What this stage feels like
People often gain confidence as they notice genuine mobility improvements. Daily activities become easier and more natural.
What helps in this stage
- Progressively loaded strengthening
- Stretching toward end-range
- Functional movement retraining
- Return-to-activity planning
Expected progress
Movement starts to improve in this stage, but full recovery still takes time.
Most people regain very good function, though minor stiffness can occasionally persist.
Factors that influence recovery time
Not everyone follows the exact same timeline. Recovery may be longer or shorter depending on:
- Correct diagnosis (misdiagnosis dramatically delays recovery)
- Stage-appropriate treatment
- Co-existing conditions (diabetes, thyroid issues)
- How irritated or inflamed the shoulder is
- Whether exercises are matched to the right stage
- Previous shoulder injuries or surgery
- A GHJ corticosteroid injection during the early freezing stage may significantly reduce pain and, in some cases, can help shorten how long this stage lasts. A detailed explanation of who benefits most and when to consider an injection is included in the full Frozen Shoulder Treatment Guide (coming soon).
When to seek extra help
You should seek a physiotherapy or medical review if:
- Your pain continues to worsen
- Movement is declining rapidly
- You're unsure what stage you're in
- You haven't been given clear advice or a tailored exercise plan
Correct treatment early in the process helps prevent months of unnecessary pain.
Want a clear plan for every stage?
Many people feel lost navigating frozen shoulder alone. My comprehensive Frozen Shoulder Treatment Guide walks you through:
- Stage-matched exercises
- Pain-relief strategies
- Sleep tips
- Do’s and don’ts
- Recovery expectations
- When to push vs when to ease off
Learn more about the guide here (coming soon)