What is Frozen Shoulder?

Frozen shoulder, also known as adhesive capsulitis, is a condition characterized by stiffness and pain in the shoulder joint. It typically develops gradually and can significantly affect a person's ability to perform everyday tasks. Understanding frozen shoulder involves delving into its symptoms, causes, treatments, and preventive measures. If you're looking for comprehensive information, you've come to the right place.

Understanding the Anatomy of the Shoulder

To fully grasp what frozen shoulder entails, it's important to understand the anatomy of the shoulder. The shoulder joint is made up of three main bones: the humerus (the upper arm bone), the scapula (shoulder blade), and the clavicle (collarbone). Surrounding the joint is a capsule of connective tissue that holds the joint together and allows for a wide range of motion.

Causes of Frozen Shoulder

The exact cause of frozen shoulder is not fully understood, but certain factors and conditions may increase the risk. Here are some common causes associated with the development of frozen shoulder:

• Age: It is more common in individuals aged 40 to 60.
• Gender: Women are more likely to develop frozen shoulder than men.
• Underlying health conditions: Such as diabetes, thyroid disorders, or cardiovascular disease.
• Inactivity: Prolonged immobility or lack of use of the shoulder following a surgery or injury can contribute.
• Chronic inflammation: Conditions like rheumatoid arthritis may lead to frozen shoulder.

Symptoms of Frozen Shoulder

The symptoms of frozen shoulder can typically be broken down into three stages:

1. Freezing Stage: This stage lasts from six weeks to nine months. Patients experience increasing pain and loss of motion. Everyday activities become challenging.
2. Frozen Stage: This stage often lasts four to six months. Pain may start to diminish; however, stiffness remains significant, restricting movement.
3. Thawing Stage: During this final stage, which can last from six months to two years, shoulder mobility gradually improves, and pain continues to decrease.

Diagnosis of Frozen Shoulder

To diagnose frozen shoulder, healthcare providers typically perform a physical examination and review the patient’s medical history. Additional diagnostic procedures may include:

• X-rays: To rule out other shoulder problems.
• MRI scans: To get a more detailed view of the shoulder's soft tissue.

A thorough evaluation helps to confirm the diagnosis and rule out any other underlying issues.

Treatment Options for Frozen Shoulder

Treatment for frozen shoulder aims to relieve pain and restore motion. Here are some common treatment options:

1. Physical Therapy

Physical therapy is often the first line of treatment. A physical therapist will develop a tailored exercise regimen to improve flexibility, strength, and range of motion. This may include:

• Stretching exercises: Gradual stretching to avoid stiffness.
• Strengthening exercises: Targeted exercises to build shoulder support.
• Manual therapy: Hands-on techniques to relieve tension in the shoulder.

2. Medications

Over-the-counter medications such as NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) may provide relief. In more severe cases, doctors may prescribe:

• Corticosteroid injections: To reduce inflammation and pain.
• Topical analgesics: Creams or patches applied to the skin over the affected area.

3. Heat and Cold Therapy

Applying heat or cold to the affected shoulder can help alleviate pain. Heat therapy may encourage blood flow, while cold therapy can numb the area to reduce pain.

4. Surgical Options

In rare cases where conservative treatments fail, surgical intervention may be considered. Surgeries such as:

• Arthroscopic capsular release: Involves cutting the connective tissue to relieve stiffness.
• Manipulation under anesthesia: The doctor moves the shoulder joint while the patient is under anesthesia to break up adhesions.

These procedures can help restore mobility when other treatments have been ineffective.

Recovery and Prognosis

The recovery timeline for frozen shoulder varies from person to person. Typically, restoration of motion can take several months to a few years. It’s crucial to adhere to the prescribed treatment plan and participate actively in physical therapy. Many individuals experience significant improvement over time, although some may still have lingering stiffness.

Prevention of Frozen Shoulder

While it may not be entirely preventable, certain actions can reduce the risk of developing frozen shoulder:

• Stay active: Engage in regular physical activities that involve shoulder motion.
• Address health issues: Take proactive steps to manage chronic conditions like diabetes.
• Avoid prolonged immobility: After surgery or injury, gradually incorporate movement and stretching exercises.

Living with Frozen Shoulder

Living with frozen shoulder can be challenging, but with appropriate care and treatment, many individuals successfully navigate their recovery. Support groups and therapy can also provide emotional and psychological help for those dealing with the stress of limited mobility.

Conclusion

In summary, frozen shoulder (adhesive capsulitis) can significantly impact your quality of life, but understanding its nature helps in seeking the right treatment. If you suspect you have frozen shoulder, consult a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis and personalized treatment plan. With proper care, exercises, and possibly physical therapy from experts like those at Hello Physio, you can improve your shoulder’s range of motion and reduce pain.