Ulta Lab Tests

Frozen Shoulder Lab Panel

Blood
Blood Draw, Phlebotomist

The following is a list of what is included in the item above. Click the test(s) below to view what biomarkers are measured along with an explanation of what the biomarker is measuring.

Also known as: ACPA, Anti-CCP, Anti-citrulline Antibody, Anti-cyclic Citrullinated Peptide, Anti-Cyclic Citrullinated Peptide (CCP) Antibody IgG, CCP, CCP Antibody, Citrullinated Peptide (CCP) IgG, Cyclic Citrullinated Peptide Antibody, Cyclic Citrullinated Peptide CCP Antibody IgG

Cyclic Citrullinated

Estradiol

Estradiol (estradiol-17 beta, E2) is part of an estrogen that is a group of steroids that regulate the menstrual cycle and function as the main female sex hormones. Estrogens are responsible for the development of female sex organs and secondary sex characteristics and are tied to the menstrual cycle and pregnancy. They are considered the main sex hormones in women and are present in small quantities in men. Estradiol (E2) is the predominant form of estrogen and is produced primarily in the ovaries with additional amounts produced by the adrenal glands in women and in the testes and adrenal glands in men. Estradiol levels are used in evaluating ovarian function. Estradiol levels are increased in cases of early (precocious) puberty in girls and gynecomastia in men. Its main use has been in the differential diagnosis of amenorrhea – for example, to determine whether the cause is menopause, pregnancy, or a medical problem. In assisted reproductive technology (ART), serial measurements are used to monitor follicle development in the ovary in the days prior to in vitro fertilization. Estradiol is also sometimes used to monitor menopausal hormone replacement therapy.

Also known as: Follicle Stimulating Hormone (FSH) and Luteinizing Hormone (LH), Follicle Stimulating Hormone and Luteinizing Hormone

Fsh

Lh

Glucose

A blood glucose test measures the amount of a sugar called glucose in a sample of your blood. Glucose is a major source of energy for most cells of the body, including those in the brain. The hormones insulin and glucagon help control blood glucose levels.

Also known as: A1c, Glycated Hemoglobin, Glycohemoglobin, Glycosylated Hemoglobin, HA1c, HbA1c, Hemoglobin A1c, Hemoglobin A1c HgbA1C, Hgb A1c

Hemoglobin A1c

The A1c test evaluates the average amount of glucose in the blood over the last 2 to 3 months. It does this by measuring the concentration of glycated (also often called glycosylated) hemoglobin A1c. Hemoglobin is an oxygen-transporting protein found inside red blood cells (RBCs). There are several types of normal hemoglobin, but the predominant form – about 95-98% – is hemoglobin A. As glucose circulates in the blood, some of it spontaneously binds to hemoglobin A. The hemoglobin molecules with attached glucose are called glycated hemoglobin. The higher the concentration of glucose in the blood, the more glycated hemoglobin is formed. Once the glucose binds to the hemoglobin, it remains there for the life of the red blood cell – normally about 120 days. The predominant form of glycated hemoglobin is referred to as HbA1c or A1c. A1c is produced on a daily basis and slowly cleared from the blood as older RBCs die and younger RBCs (with non-glycated hemoglobin) take their place. This test is used to monitor treatment in someone who has been diagnosed with diabetes. It helps to evaluate how well their glucose levels have been controlled by treatment over time. This test may be used to screen for and diagnose diabetes or risk of developing diabetes. In 2010, clinical practice guidelines from the American Diabetes Association (ADA) stated that A1c may be added to fasting plasma glucose (FPG) and oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) as an option for diabetes screening and diagnosis. For monitoring purposes, an A1c of less than 7% indicates good glucose control and a lower risk of diabetic complications for the majority of diabetics. However, in 2012, the ADA and the European Association for the Study of Diabetes (EASD) issued a position statement recommending that the management of glucose control in type 2 diabetes be more "patient-centered." Data from recent studies have shown that low blood sugar (hypoglycemia) can cause complications and that people with risk of severe hypoglycemia, underlying health conditions, complications, and a limited life expectancy do not necessarily benefit from having a stringent goal of less than 7% for their A1c. The statement recommends that people work closely with their doctor to select a goal that reflects each person's individual health status and that balances risks and benefits.

Also known as: C-Reactive Protein, Cardio CRP, Cardio hs-CRP, CRP, High Sensitivity CRP, High-sensitivity C-reactive Protein, High-sensitivity CRP, Highly Sensitive CRP, hsCRP, Ultra-sensitive CRP

Hs Crp

A high-sensitivity CRP (hs-CRP) test may be used by itself, in combination with other cardiac risk markers, or in combination with a lipoprotein-associated phospholipase A2 (Lp-PLA2) test that evaluates vascular inflammation. The hs-CRP test accurately detects low concentrations of C-reactive protein to help predict a healthy person's risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD). High-sensitivity CRP is promoted by some as a test for determining a person's risk level for CVD, heart attacks, and strokes. The current thinking is that hs-CRP can play a role in the evaluation process before a person develops one of these health problems.

Also known as: RF

Rheumatoid Factor

Rheumatoid factor (RF) is a blood test that measures the amount of the RF antibody in the blood. An abnormal result means the test is positive, which means higher levels of rheumatoid factor have been detected in your blood. Most patients with rheumatoid arthritis or Sjogren syndrome have positive RF tests. The higher the level, the more likely one of these conditions is present. Not everyone with higher levels of rheumatoid factor has rheumatoid arthritis or Sjogren syndrome.

Also known as: Free T3, FT3, T3 Free

T3, Free

This test measures the amount of triiodothyronine, or T3, in the blood.

Also known as: Free T4, FT4, T4 Free

T4, Free

The free T4 test is not affected by protein levels. Since free T4 is the active form of thyroxine, the free T4 test is may be a more accurate reflection of thyroid hormone function.

Also known as: Thyroid Stimulating Hormone Test, Thyrotropin Test

TSH

A TSH test is a lab test that measures the amount of thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) in your blood. TSH is produced by the pituitary gland. It tells the thyroid gland to make and release thyroid hormones into the blood.

Also known as: ,25-Hydroxyvitamin D2, 25-Hydroxycholecalciferol (25OHD3), 25-OH-D2,D3 Vitamin, D2 Vitamin,25-Hydroxyvitamin D3,25-OH-D3, QuestAssureD 25Hydroxyvitamin D D2 D3 LCMSMS, Vitamin D, Vitamin D, 25-Hydroxy, Vitamin D2, 25-hydroxy,25-Hydroxyergocalciferol (25OHD2),Vitamin D3, 25-hydroxy

Vitamin D, 25-Oh, Total

Vitamin D comes from two sources: endogenous, which is produced in the skin on exposure to sunlight, and exogenous, which is ingested in foods and supplements. The chemical structures of the types of vitamin D are slightly different, and they are named vitamin D2 (ergocalciferol, which comes from plants) and vitamin D3 (cholecalciferol, which comes from animals). The D2 form is found in fortified foods and in most vitamin preparations and supplements. Vitamin D3 is the form produced in the body and is also used in some supplements. Vitamin D2 and D3 are equally effective when they are converted by the liver and the kidney into the active form, 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D.
*Important Information on Lab Test Processing Times: Ulta Lab Tests is committed to informing you about the processing times for your lab tests processed through a national lab. Please note that the estimated processing time for each test, indicated in business days, is based on data from the past 30 days across the 13 laboratories for each test. These estimates are intended to serve as a guide and are not guarantees. Factors such as laboratory workload, weather conditions, holidays, and the need for additional testing or maintenance can influence actual processing times. We aim to offer estimates to help you plan accordingly. Please understand that these times may vary, and processing times are not guaranteed. Thank you for choosing Ulta Lab Tests for your laboratory needs.

The Frozen Shoulder Lab Panel panel contains 11 tests with 12 biomarkers .

Overview of the Frozen Shoulder Lab Panel

The Frozen Shoulder Lab Panel is a comprehensive diagnostic tool designed to help identify underlying causes of adhesive capsulitis, commonly known as frozen shoulder. While frozen shoulder is a musculoskeletal condition characterized by shoulder stiffness, pain, and limited mobility, research shows it often has systemic links. Endocrine disorders, autoimmune diseases, chronic inflammation, and metabolic imbalances can all contribute to its onset or slow recovery.

This specialized panel evaluates multiple health markers, including thyroid function, blood sugar regulation, inflammatory markers, autoimmune antibodies, hormone levels, and vitamin D status. By uncovering these potential root causes, the Frozen Shoulder Lab Panel enables clinicians to provide more targeted, effective treatment strategies.

When and Why the Frozen Shoulder Lab Panel May Be Ordered

Healthcare providers may order the Frozen Shoulder Lab Panel when patients experience persistent shoulder stiffness and pain without a clear injury or when conservative treatments fail. It is particularly recommended for individuals who:

  • Have diabetes or prediabetes

  • Are experiencing symptoms of thyroid dysfunction

  • Show signs of hormonal imbalance (such as menopause-related changes)

  • Have unexplained inflammation or autoimmune symptoms

  • Experience recurrent or bilateral frozen shoulder

Frozen shoulder has strong associations with metabolic and endocrine conditions. For example, diabetes significantly increases the risk of adhesive capsulitis, while hypothyroidism, autoimmune disorders, and low estrogen levels are also contributing factors. Identifying these hidden drivers early allows for an integrated approach to treatment—addressing both shoulder function and the systemic issues fueling the condition.

What the Frozen Shoulder Lab Panel Checks For

The Frozen Shoulder Lab Panel includes tests that assess autoimmune activity, metabolic health, hormone balance, inflammation, and nutrient status. Below is a detailed explanation of each marker:

Cyclic Citrullinated Peptide (CCP) Antibody (IgG)

This test detects CCP antibodies, highly specific markers for rheumatoid arthritis (RA). RA is an autoimmune disease that can cause systemic inflammation, which may affect shoulder joints and surrounding tissues. While RA is not the most common cause of frozen shoulder, a positive CCP result indicates an autoimmune component that requires specialized management.

Estradiol

Estradiol, a primary estrogen hormone, plays a role in connective tissue flexibility and bone health. Low estradiol levels—common in postmenopausal women—can impair collagen synthesis and tissue repair, increasing the likelihood of joint stiffness and adhesive capsulitis. Measuring estradiol helps identify hormone imbalances that may influence frozen shoulder development.

FSH and LH (Follicle-Stimulating Hormone and Luteinizing Hormone)

These reproductive hormones regulate estrogen and testosterone production. Elevated FSH and LH levels often indicate menopause or perimenopause, periods linked to changes in tissue elasticity and inflammatory response. Testing these markers provides insights into hormonal health and its effect on shoulder mobility.

Glucose

This test measures fasting blood sugar and helps detect diabetes or prediabetes. Poor glucose control leads to glycation of collagen and connective tissue, making them less elastic and more prone to stiffness. Diabetes is one of the strongest risk factors for frozen shoulder, making this test essential for identifying metabolic contributors.

Hemoglobin A1c (HgbA1C)

Hemoglobin A1c reflects average blood glucose over the past 2–3 months, providing a clearer picture of long-term glucose control than a single fasting reading. Elevated A1c confirms chronic hyperglycemia, which can hinder healing and worsen adhesive capsulitis symptoms.

hs-CRP (High-Sensitivity C-Reactive Protein)

hs-CRP measures systemic inflammation. Chronic low-grade inflammation can delay tissue recovery and amplify pain and stiffness. Elevated hs-CRP may indicate metabolic syndrome, autoimmune disorders, or other inflammatory conditions that complicate frozen shoulder treatment.

Rheumatoid Factor (RF)

Rheumatoid Factor is an antibody associated with autoimmune conditions, particularly rheumatoid arthritis. While less specific than CCP antibodies, an elevated RF suggests immune system involvement and may justify further rheumatologic evaluation.

T3, Free

Free T3 is an active thyroid hormone that regulates metabolism and tissue repair. Low T3 can contribute to fatigue, muscle weakness, and joint stiffness. Since hypothyroidism is closely linked to frozen shoulder, monitoring T3 helps identify thyroid-related issues.

T4, Free

Free T4 is a thyroid hormone that serves as a precursor to T3. Measuring T4 along with TSH and T3 gives a complete picture of thyroid function. Imbalances can impair joint health and predispose individuals to musculoskeletal disorders.

TSH (Thyroid-Stimulating Hormone)

TSH is a key marker for thyroid function. Elevated TSH typically indicates hypothyroidism—a known risk factor for frozen shoulder. Comprehensive thyroid evaluation is essential for managing systemic contributors to adhesive capsulitis.

Vitamin D, 25-Hydroxy, Total, Immunoassay

Vitamin D supports bone, muscle, and immune health. Deficiency can increase inflammation, weaken connective tissue, and delay recovery from musculoskeletal injuries. Maintaining optimal vitamin D levels is crucial for healing and long-term shoulder health.

How Healthcare Professionals Use the Frozen Shoulder Lab Panel Results

The Frozen Shoulder Lab Panel results help healthcare professionals design personalized treatment plans that go beyond physical therapy. For instance, if the panel indicates poorly controlled diabetes, managing blood sugar becomes a priority. If thyroid markers are abnormal, correcting hypothyroidism can significantly improve recovery outcomes.

When autoimmune markers such as CCP antibodies or RF are elevated, referral to a rheumatologist and immune-modulating treatments may be necessary. Elevated hs-CRP signals the need to reduce systemic inflammation through diet, lifestyle, or medications. Correcting vitamin D deficiency supports musculoskeletal resilience, while addressing hormonal imbalances—such as low estradiol—may restore joint flexibility and prevent recurrence.

By addressing these underlying conditions, clinicians can enhance recovery speed, reduce pain, and improve overall patient outcomes.

The Frozen Shoulder Lab Panel is an essential diagnostic resource for uncovering systemic contributors to adhesive capsulitis. By evaluating autoimmune activity, hormone balance, thyroid function, blood sugar regulation, inflammation, and nutrient status, this panel provides a complete metabolic and endocrine profile. Treating both the localized symptoms and the root causes ensures more effective and lasting relief for individuals struggling with frozen shoulder.

Customer Reviews