Frozen Shoulder

Frozen shoulder, also known as adhesive capsulitis, is a debilitating condition characterized by stiffness, pain, and limited range of motion in the shoulder joint. It typically develops gradually over time and can significantly impact daily activities and quality of life. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment options for frozen shoulder.

Causes:

The exact cause of frozen shoulder is not fully understood, but several factors may contribute to its development. These include:

1. Immobilization: Prolonged immobilization of the shoulder joint, such as after surgery, injury, or stroke, can lead to the development of frozen shoulder.
2. Inflammation: Inflammation of the shoulder capsule, often due to injury or underlying conditions like diabetes, can trigger the characteristic thickening and tightening of the joint capsule.
3. Age and Gender: Frozen shoulder most commonly affects individuals between the ages of 40 and 60, and it’s more prevalent in women than in men.
4. Medical Conditions: Certain medical conditions such as diabetes, thyroid disorders, and heart disease have been associated with an increased risk of developing frozen shoulder.

Symptoms: 

1. Pain: Persistent dull or aching pain in the shoulder joint, which may worsen at night and with movement.
2. Stiffness: Gradual onset of stiffness in the shoulder joint, making it difficult to perform everyday tasks like reaching overhead or behind the back.
3. Limited Range of Motion: Progressive loss of shoulder mobility, often leading to difficulty in performing activities that require full shoulder movement.

Treatment Options:

Treatment for frozen shoulder aims to alleviate pain, improve shoulder mobility, and restore function. Common treatment options include:

1. Physical Therapy: Gentle stretching and strengthening exercises prescribed by a physical therapist can help improve shoulder mobility and reduce stiffness.
2. Medications: Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, may help alleviate pain and inflammation.
3. Steroid Injections: Corticosteroid injections into the shoulder joint can provide temporary relief from pain and inflammation.
4. Joint Distension: In some cases, a procedure called hydrodilatation may be recommended, where sterile fluid is injected into the shoulder joint to stretch the capsule and improve mobility.
5. Surgery: If conservative treatments fail to provide relief, surgical interventions such as arthroscopic release or manipulation under anesthesia may be considered to break up adhesions and scar tissue in the shoulder joint.

Frozen shoulder is a challenging condition that can significantly impact daily life, but with proper diagnosis and treatment, many individuals can experience improvement in symptoms and regain shoulder function. Early intervention and a comprehensive treatment approach tailored to individual needs are key to managing this condition effectively. If you’re experiencing persistent shoulder pain or stiffness, it’s important to consult with a healthcare professional for evaluation and personalized treatment recommendations.