Traditional Chinese Medicine considers the following reasons which are the main causes of frozen shoulder.
1. Attack of External Pathogens (Wind & Cold)
In this cause, the shoulder is being attacked by the cold or wind of external pathogens. Such things like air-conditioning, fan or open window or no blanket whilst you sleep. This leads to an invasion of cold causing stagnation in the channels around the shoulder and results in pain. Usually this pain comes and goes depending on the climate.  It will be worse on a cold and windy day.

2. Blood Stagnation Due to Injury
This type of Frozen Shoulder can be caused by a reduced flow in the circulation leading to stagnation of blood, such as from sports injuries, overuse of the shoulder or general injury. The pain will be sharp, fixed and feel deep within the shoulder. The pain may even occur while sleeping.

3. Frozen Shoulder from lack of circulation in the Neck
The neck, shoulders and arms share a few channels and when there is a lack of circulation to the neck the problem will affect the circulation in the arms and shoulders causing shoulder pain and frozen shoulder. This type of frozen shoulder may also be combined with finger tingling or numbness.

4. Disorder of Internal Organ
Chinese Medicine considers that the channels and internal organs are strongly related. Sometimes, when internal organs are weakened or in a state of dysfunction, the shoulders can be affected as a consequence. These organs can include the Liver, Gall Bladder, Lungs and Small Intestine.

Prevention of shoulder pain
1) Avoid direct wind on your shoulder and neck while sleeping. Cover your shoulder and neck, especially in the cold evening while sleeping. In cold or windy weather, protect your neck and shoulders with clothing such as a scarf.

2) If you have an old injury to your neck or shoulder seek immediate treatment to resolve the injury.

3) Avoid touching frozen or cold objects with your hands as this may affect the circulation to your neck and shoulders.

4) Regular gentle exercise involving the shoulders and arms.