What condition is characterized by loss of range of motion in the shoulder?

The condition characterized by loss of range of motion in the shoulder is frozen shoulder, also known as adhesive capsulitis. This condition involves the thickening and tightening of the capsule surrounding the shoulder joint, resulting in marked stiffness and a reduction in the ability to move the shoulder in all directions. Patients typically experience pain and progressively worsening limitations in motion, which can severely impact daily activities.

Frozen shoulder usually develops gradually and can be associated with periods of inflammation followed by significant limitations in motion, which can last for months or even years if untreated. The loss of range of motion is a key feature, distinguishing it from other shoulder conditions where range of motion might be intact or only mildly affected.

Other conditions listed, like shoulder dislocation or rotator cuff tears, may also present with some limitation in movement, but they typically involve acute pain and specific directional limitations rather than the generalized loss of motion seen in frozen shoulder. Similarly, shoulder impingement primarily affects specific movements and is often linked to pain rather than overall motion restriction.