Red flags & when to go in person for Frozen Shoulder (Adhesive Capsulitis) in Children

Audience: pediatric

Frozen shoulder, also called adhesive capsulitis, is a condition that causes stiffness and pain in the shoulder joint. While it is more common in adults, children can sometimes develop this condition, often after an injury or illness. The shoulder may become hard to move, making daily activities difficult. Telemedicine can help you learn about frozen shoulder, manage mild symptoms, and decide when to seek in-person care. However, if your child has severe pain, sudden swelling, or other serious signs, it is important to see a healthcare provider in person promptly. This guide explains warning signs, what telemedicine can and cannot do, and how to prepare for a virtual visit about frozen shoulder in children.

Red flags — go in person / ER

• Severe shoulder pain not relieved by rest or medication — seek emergency care
• Sudden swelling, redness, or warmth around the shoulder with fever — possible infection, go to urgent care
• Numbness, weakness, or inability to move the arm or hand — urgent evaluation needed

What telemedicine can do

• Initial assessment of symptoms and history
• Guidance on gentle exercises and pain relief
• Monitoring mild to moderate symptoms
• Deciding if further in-person care or tests are needed

What telemedicine cannot do

• Hands-on physical examination
• Imaging tests like X-rays or MRI
• Emergency care for severe pain or infection signs
• Diagnosis of complex or serious conditions

What is Frozen Shoulder (Adhesive Capsulitis)?

Frozen shoulder happens when the tissues around the shoulder joint become thick and tight. This causes pain and limits how much the shoulder can move. In children, it might start after an injury, surgery, or illness that makes the shoulder stay still for a long time. Symptoms often develop slowly and include pain and stiffness, especially when trying to lift the arm or reach behind the back.

Common Symptoms in Children

Children with frozen shoulder may have:

If symptoms last for weeks and do not improve, it is important to get medical advice.

When to Seek In-Person Care (Red Flags)

Certain signs mean your child should see a healthcare provider in person right away:

If any of these happen, do not wait for a telemedicine visit—go to an emergency room or urgent care.

How Telemedicine Can Help

Telemedicine can be useful for:

Telemedicine is a good first step for mild to moderate symptoms without red flags.

Limitations of Telemedicine for Frozen Shoulder

Telemedicine cannot:

If your child’s condition worsens or does not improve, an in-person visit is necessary.

Preparing for a Telemedicine Visit

Before the virtual appointment:

This preparation helps the healthcare provider give the best advice.

After the Telemedicine Visit

After your appointment:

Regular follow-up helps ensure the best recovery for your child.

How to prepare for your tele-visit

• Dress child in loose clothing to expose shoulder
• Prepare to describe symptoms clearly and timeline
• Have a family member assist with video if needed
• Be ready to demonstrate shoulder movements on camera
• List current medications and treatments

After your tele-visit

• Follow exercise and pain management advice given
• Watch for any worsening symptoms or red flags
• Schedule in-person visit if recommended
• Seek emergency care if red flags appear
• Keep notes of symptom changes for follow-up

FAQs

Can frozen shoulder happen in children?

Yes, although it is less common than in adults, children can develop frozen shoulder, often after injury, surgery, or prolonged immobility of the shoulder.

How long does frozen shoulder last in children?

Frozen shoulder may last several months to over a year. Recovery often happens gradually with proper care and exercises.

Can telemedicine diagnose frozen shoulder?

Telemedicine can help assess symptoms and suggest if frozen shoulder is likely, but an in-person exam and imaging may be needed for a full diagnosis.

What exercises can help frozen shoulder?

Gentle stretching and range-of-motion exercises are often recommended. A healthcare provider can guide which exercises are safe and effective for your child.

When should I take my child to the hospital for shoulder pain?

If your child has severe pain, sudden swelling, fever, numbness, weakness, or cannot move the arm, seek emergency medical care immediately.

Sources

1. Frozen Shoulder — MedlinePlus, U.S. National Library of Medicine.
2. Adhesive Capsulitis (Frozen Shoulder) — Mayo Clinic.
3. Frozen Shoulder: Symptoms and Treatment — Merck Manuals Consumer Version.
4. Frozen Shoulder — National Library of Medicine.

This telemedicine guidance is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for in-person medical care. If your child has serious symptoms or worsening condition, please seek immediate medical attention.