Frozen Shoulder

Frozen shoulder, also known as adhesive capsulitis, is a condition characterized by stiffness, pain, and limited range of motion in the shoulder joint. It typically develops gradually over time and can worsen if left untreated.

It’s important for individuals with frozen shoulder to work closely with their healthcare provider to develop a personalized treatment plan tailored to their specific needs and goals. With proper management, most people with frozen shoulder can experience significant improvement in symptoms and function over time.

The shoulder joint is surrounded by a capsule of connective tissue that holds the bones, ligaments, and tendons together. In frozen shoulder, this capsule becomes thickened and tight, leading to decreased flexibility and movement. The exact cause of frozen shoulder is not always clear, but it often occurs after periods of immobilization or inactivity, such as after surgery, injury, or prolonged bed rest. It can also be associated with certain medical conditions such as diabetes, thyroid disorders, or cardiovascular disease.

The symptoms of frozen shoulder typically progress through three stages:

Freezing stage: During this stage, which can last for several months, there is a gradual onset of shoulder pain and stiffness. The pain may worsen at night, making it difficult to sleep on the affected side. As the shoulder becomes increasingly stiff, everyday activities such as reaching overhead or behind the back may become challenging.
Frozen stage: In this stage, which can last for several months to a year, the stiffness in the shoulder becomes more pronounced, and the range of motion becomes severely limited. Even simple movements like brushing hair or getting dressed may be difficult or impossible without pain.
Thawing stage: During this final stage, which can last for several months to years, the pain and stiffness gradually begin to improve, and the shoulder’s range of motion slowly returns. However, full recovery may not be achieved for some individuals, and residual stiffness or discomfort may persist.

FAQ...

What is frozen shoulder ?

Frozen shoulder, also known as adhesive capsulitis, is a condition characterized by stiffness, pain, and limited range of motion in the shoulder joint.

What are the common symptoms of frozen shoulder ?

Common symptoms include shoulder pain, stiffness, difficulty moving the shoulder, and limited range of motion, particularly when trying to reach overhead or behind the back.

What are the three stages of frozen shoulder ?

The three stages are freezing stage (gradual onset of pain and stiffness), frozen stage (severe stiffness and limited range of motion), and thawing stage (gradual improvement in symptoms and range of motion).

What are some risk factors for developing frozen shoulder ?

Risk factors include age (more common in people over 40), gender (more common in women), certain medical conditions such as diabetes or thyroid disorders, shoulder injury or surgery, and prolonged periods of immobilization or inactivity.

How is frozen shoulder diagnosed ?

Diagnosis is typically based on a physical examination, medical history, and imaging tests such as X-rays or MRI scans to rule out other potential causes of shoulder pain and stiffness.

What are the treatment options for frozen shoulder ?

Treatment may include medications (NSAIDs or corticosteroid injections), physical therapy, joint mobilization, hydrodilatation, and in severe cases, surgical intervention to release the tight capsule.

How long does it take to recover from frozen shoulder ?

Recovery time varies depending on the severity of the condition and individual response to treatment, but it can take several months to years to fully recover.

Can frozen shoulder recur after treatment ?

While recurrence is possible, especially in individuals with underlying medical conditions or predisposing factors, proper management and adherence to a maintenance program can help prevent recurrence.

Are there any home remedies or self-care measures that can help alleviate symptoms of frozen shoulder ?

Yes, gentle stretching exercises, heat or cold therapy, over-the-counter pain medications, and avoiding activities that aggravate symptoms can help manage pain and improve mobility.

When should I seek medical attention for frozen shoulder ?

You should seek medical attention if you experience persistent shoulder pain or stiffness that interferes with your daily activities, or if you have difficulty moving your shoulder or lifting your arm. Early intervention can help prevent further progression of the condition and improve outcomes.