Frozen Shoulder (Adhesive Capsulitis)

What Is Frozen Shoulder?

Frozen shoulder, medically known as adhesive capsulitis, is a condition characterized by stiffness and pain in the shoulder joint. The condition develops gradually, with the shoulder capsule (the connective tissue surrounding the joint) becoming thick and tight, restricting movement.

Frozen shoulder typically progresses through three stages: freezing (painful), frozen (stiff), and thawing (improving). The condition can last from several months to over two years and significantly impacts daily activities and sleep.

Symptoms and Causes

Symptoms of frozen shoulder

Common symptoms include:

• Shoulder pain: Aching pain that worsens at night
• Stiffness: Progressive loss of range of motion
• Limited movement: Difficulty raising arm overhead or behind back
• Pain with movement: Discomfort when trying to move the shoulder
• Sleep disruption: Pain that interferes with sleep

Frozen shoulder causes

Frozen shoulder typically occurs due to:

• Immobility: Prolonged periods of reduced movement
• Previous injury: Shoulder injuries that lead to immobility
• Diabetes: Increased risk in people with diabetes
• Thyroid disorders: Associated with thyroid conditions
• Age: More common in people 40-60 years old
• Gender: More common in women

Risk factors

Risk factors include immobility, diabetes, thyroid disorders, age, gender, previous shoulder injury, and certain medical conditions.

Complications of frozen shoulder

If not properly treated, complications can include prolonged stiffness, chronic pain, reduced function, and ongoing limitations.

Diagnosis and Tests

How you can diagnose frozen shoulder

Initial self-assessment can help identify frozen shoulder through progressive stiffness and limited range of motion. If symptoms persist, seek medical attention.

Tests that can help diagnose frozen shoulder

Healthcare professionals use physical examination, range of motion assessment, X-ray to rule out other conditions, and MRI if needed.

Management and Treatment

How do you heal frozen shoulder?

Treatment includes physical therapy (most important), pain management, corticosteroid injections, and in severe cases, manipulation under anesthesia or surgery.

Frozen shoulder recovery time

Recovery time varies from 6 months to 2 years. The condition progresses through stages, and early treatment is important for better outcomes.

What Could Help

Several products can aid recovery:

• Resistance bands: Resistance bands for stretching exercises
• Heat packs: Heating pads for muscle relaxation
• Ice packs: Reusable ice packs for pain relief
• Shoulder pulleys: Shoulder pulleys for range of motion exercises

Prevention

How can I prevent frozen shoulder?

Preventive measures include maintaining shoulder mobility, addressing injuries promptly, managing underlying conditions like diabetes, and avoiding prolonged immobility.