There may be no significant reason why a person develops frozen shoulder, however, in many cases the condition may develop because of an event such as surgery, illness or trauma. Several systemic conditions such as heart disease and Parkinson’s disease have also been associated with an increased risk for developing frozen shoulder.
There is no clear connection to arm activity or occupation. However, there are a few factors which increase the chances of developing frozen shoulder. It occurs much more often in people with diabetes, or other diseases such as hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid). Frozen shoulder can also develop after a shoulder has been immobilized for a period of time due to surgery, a fracture, or another injury. Keeping the arm and shoulder immobile for long periods of time may cause the shoulder capsule to tighten up from lack of use. Performing frozen shoulder exercises soon after injury or surgery is one measure that can prevent a frozen shoulder from occurring.