Overview
Frozen shoulder, medically known as adhesive capsulitis, is a condition characterized by stiffness and pain in the shoulder joint. It typically develops slowly, worsens over time, and gradually improves within 1 to 3 years.
Types of Frozen shoulder
- Primary Frozen Shoulder: Develops without any apparent cause.
- Secondary Frozen Shoulder: Occurs due to a known cause, such as shoulder injury, surgery, or underlying conditions like diabetes.
Causes of Frozen shoulder
- Primary Frozen Shoulder: The exact cause is unknown, but it involves inflammation and thickening of the shoulder capsule.
- Secondary Frozen Shoulder: Often follows a period of shoulder immobilization due to injury, surgery, or prolonged rest.
Risk Factors of Frozen shoulder
- Age: More common in people aged 40-60.
- Gender: More prevalent in women.
- Diabetes: Higher risk among individuals with diabetes.
- Shoulder Injury or Surgery: Increases the likelihood of developing frozen shoulder.
- Other Health Conditions: Thyroid disorders, cardiovascular disease, and Parkinson's disease may increase risk.
Symptoms of Frozen shoulder
1. Pain: Dull or aching pain in the shoulder that worsens with movement.
2. Stiffness: Gradual loss of shoulder mobility, making everyday tasks challenging.
3. Limited Range of Motion: Difficulty reaching overhead or behind the back.
Preventions of Frozen shoulder
Preventing frozen shoulder involves early intervention after shoulder injuries or surgeries. Physical therapy and gentle exercises can help maintain shoulder mobility and prevent stiffness.
Diagnosis of Frozen shoulder
- Medical History and Physical Exam: Evaluates symptoms and assesses shoulder mobility.
- Imaging Tests: X-rays, MRI, or ultrasound to rule out other causes and assess the extent of shoulder stiffness.
- Arthrography: Contrast dye injection for detailed imaging of the shoulder joint.
Treatment for Frozen shoulder
- Physical Therapy: Range-of-motion exercises and stretching under guidance.
- Medications: Corticosteroid injections or numbing medications into the shoulder joint.
- Hydrodilatation: Saline injection to stretch the shoulder capsule.
- Surgical Intervention: Arthroscopic capsular release in severe cases.
When to seek medical attention ?
Consult a doctor if you experience persistent shoulder pain and stiffness that limits daily activities, especially following a shoulder injury or surgery.
