Association between pain, stiffness, mood, catastrophizing, and perceived social support, in subjects with frozen shoulder: A cross-sectional study

• Published in: Shoulder & elbow p. 17585732251338652
• Main Authors: Brindisino, Fabrizio, Rizzo, Valentina, Dejaco, Beate, Andriesse, Arianna, Verardo, Angela, Turolla, Andrea
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: United States 11.05.2025
• Subjects: pain; psychosocial factors; frozen shoulder; catastrophizing thoughts; Adhesive capsulitis
• ISSN: 1758-5732
• DOI: 10.1177/17585732251338652

Catastrophizing, mood disturbances, and low perceived social support are frequently reported in individuals with frozen shoulder (FS). This study aimed to investigate the associations between pain, perceived stiffness, mood, catastrophizing, and perceived social support in individuals with FS. This cross-sectional exploratory online survey adhered to the Strengthening the Reporting of Observational Studies in Epidemiology (STROBE) guidelines. Participants clinically diagnosed with FS based on Kelley's criteria completed the questionnaire via Google Forms. Higher daytime pain was significantly associated with feelings of anger (  = 0.025) and sadness (  = 0.031). Catastrophizing thoughts, for example, "I will not be able to raise my arms as before," were correlated with increased daytime pain (  = 0.039), while "the pain will never end" was associated with both daytime (  = 0.007) and night-time pain (  < 0.001). Perceptions of low social support, for example, "nobody understands my situation" were linked to higher daytime pain (  = 0.007), and greater night-time pain (  < 0.05). Perceived stiffness was significantly associated with seeking psychological support during episodes of demoralization (  = 0.029). Psychological factors significantly influence pain and stiffness perceptions in FS, emphasizing the need for clinicians to address both physical and emotional aspects of recovery. A multidisciplinary approach should therefore be considered to provide comprehensive care.