Orthopedics and sports medicine · Munich

Frozen shoulder

Frozen shoulder is characterized by pain and restriction of both active and passive movement. It differs from being unable to lift the arm because of weakness alone. The course can be prolonged and the current irritability influences what treatment is tolerable.

Personal medical websiteMedical overview
Frozen shoulder – medical context

Assessment

What the assessment considers

The examination checks the pattern of restricted movement, especially external rotation. Relevant history includes diabetes, previous injury or surgery and symptom duration. X-rays can help exclude arthritis; additional imaging is selected if another diagnosis remains possible.

Next steps

Treatment and next steps

Treatment is matched to pain and stiffness. Education, symptom relief and appropriately dosed mobility work may be combined with an injection in selected cases. Forceful stretching can be poorly tolerated in a painful phase. Procedures for persistent stiffness require a separate assessment of benefits and risks.

Your consultation

Prepare for the consultation

Bring original images and reports, previous operation notes, a medication list and a short timeline of symptoms and treatment. Write down the activities you want to regain and your most important question. Initial inquiries should not include confidential medical attachments; agree a suitable transfer route with the practice first.

Travel and continuity of care

Coming from abroad?

Confirm the consultation language, any interpreting needs, fees and the appropriate appointment before booking travel. This website’s language does not guarantee a consultation in that language. Follow-up and communication with your local clinicians should be planned in advance.

Common questions

Answers to common questions.

Do I need to repeat my scans?

Not automatically. Bring the original images and reports first. Further imaging is considered if the existing study does not answer the clinical question or if your condition has changed.

Can this be assessed without travelling?

Some questions can be reviewed from records, but physical examination may be essential. Ask the practice to confirm suitability, scope and a secure document-transfer route before sending records or booking travel.

How are treatment costs and follow-up agreed?

Request an individual estimate and clarify reimbursement with your insurer. Ask which examinations, written reports and follow-up visits are included. International patients should also plan rehabilitation and medical contact after returning home.

About the physicianAs a former competitive athlete, I connect clinical orthopedics, sports medicine and research.
PD Dr Daniel BertholdPD Dr med Daniel P. BertholdOrthopedic surgeon · University lecturer · Sports orthopedics
100+ publications · 90 PubMed-indexed
Research and training
Profile and background

Author and medically responsiblePD Dr. med. Daniel P. BertholdSpecialist in Orthopaedics and Trauma SurgeryUpdated

Next step

Which contact route fits your request?

Choose between a clinical appointment, second opinion, athlete care or a professional inquiry.

InquiryBook an appointment