How long does the frozen stage of adhesive capsulitis last?

• A. 3-9 months
• B. 9-15 months
• C. 15-24 months
• D. Duration varies widely

Answer: (B)

The duration of the frozen stage of adhesive capsulitis, often referred to as "frozen shoulder," typically lasts between 9 to 15 months. During this stage, patients experience significant limitations in shoulder mobility due to stiffness and pain, which can severely impact daily activities.

The timeline for the stages of adhesive capsulitis includes an initial phase of pain, followed by the freezing stage where movement becomes increasingly restricted. Recognizing the timeframe for the frozen stage is crucial for practitioners to set appropriate expectations with patients regarding recovery and to tailor rehabilitation interventions accordingly.

While other options might consider longer or shorter durations, clinical research and guidelines typically indicate that the frozen stage consistently falls within the 9 to 15 months range for most patients, making option B the most accurate representation of this phase in the condition's timeline.