Frozen shoulder and PIP: Complete Guide to Descriptors & Points

If you have Frozen shoulder, you may be entitled to PIP (Personal Independence Payment). This guide shows which PIP descriptors apply to your condition and how many points you could receive.

Last updated: February 2026 | Based on Social Security (Personal Independence Payment) Regulations 2013

Which PIP Activities Does Frozen shoulder Affect?

Washing and bathing

  • Descriptor 4d: Needs assistance to wash either hair or body below the waist — 2 points (e.g. cannot reach feet, cannot lift arms)

Dressing and undressing

  • Descriptor 6e: Needs assistance to dress or undress upper body — 3 points (e.g. cannot lift arms, weakness)

How to Claim PIP for Frozen shoulder

  1. Use our free PIP eligibility checker to estimate your points
  2. Answer based on your worst days, not your best days
  3. Remember the reliability test: can you do it safely, repeatedly, to an acceptable standard, in a reasonable time?
  4. Gather supporting evidence from your GP or specialist

Already Been Denied?

73% of PIP appeals succeed at tribunal. If you’ve been denied, use our Mandatory Reconsideration letter builder to challenge the decision.