A low grade inflammatory process involves the musculotendinous cuff, synovial membrane, bicipital proximal tendon and sheath. This is a loss of elasticity of the periarticular tissues, which become shortened and fibriotic, thereby fixing the humeral head in the glnoid cavitiy.

Pain is present in abduction, external rotation and extension. External rotation is usually the most limited movement. Pain is frequently featured in scapulohumeral joint movements.