A frozen shoulder, also known as adhesive capsulitis occurs when the shoulder stiffens up. There's usually pain and always a loss of motion. The process involves thickening and contracture of the capsule surrounding the shoulder joint.

A "frozen knee" is possible. Like the shoulder, loss of motion is the defining symptom although the patient often has pain as well. This condition in the knee is most common after a knee injury, chronic bursitis, or a total knee replacement.