Frozen shoulder, also known as adhesive capsulitis, is a condition that leads to the loss of normal joint movement accompanied by severe pain and stiffness.
It can significantly impact daily life, making simple activities like dressing or lifting the arm difficult and painful. Frozen shoulder may occur due to an injury, previous surgery, or even prolonged immobility of the joint.
In this article, we will discuss in detail the causes of frozen shoulder, its different stages, associated symptoms, and the best exercises to help restore normal joint movement.
What is Frozen Shoulder?
Frozen shoulder is a disorder that affects the shoulder joint capsule, leading to its inflammation and fibrosis, which reduces its flexibility and movement. It typically occurs due to prolonged immobility following an injury, surgery, or other medical conditions.
Causes of Frozen Shoulder
- Injuries and fractures: Restricting shoulder movement after an injury can lead to stiffness.
- Previous surgeries: Some surgical procedures, such as tendon repair or fracture fixation, may cause joint stiffness.
- Chronic diseases: Conditions like diabetes and thyroid disorders increase the risk of developing frozen shoulder.
- Prolonged immobility: Lack of movement due to pain or a past injury can lead to the stiffening of the tissues around the joint.
Stages of Frozen Shoulder
- Stage 1 – The Painful Stage: Severe pain increases with movement, and the patient begins to notice a gradual decrease in shoulder mobility.
- Stage 2 – The Stiffening Stage: Pain gradually decreases, but the joint remains stiff, limiting the patient's ability to move the shoulder freely.
- Stage 3 – The Recovery Stage: The patient slowly regains movement, but it may take several months for the joint to return to normal.
Symptoms of Frozen Shoulder
- Persistent pain in the shoulder joint that worsens with movement.
- Noticeable stiffness in the joint with reduced ability to lift or rotate the arm.
- Discomfort even at rest or during sleep.
- Difficulty performing daily tasks such as dressing or lifting objects.
Diagnosis of Frozen Shoulder
Diagnosis is based on a physical examination and the patient’s medical history. The doctor will move the shoulder in different directions to assess stiffness. Imaging tests such as X-rays or MRI scans may also be requested to rule out other issues like arthritis or tendon tears.
Exercises for Frozen Shoulder
- Wall Walk Exercise: Stand facing a wall and place your fingers on it, then slowly move your hand upward.
- Towel Stretch Exercise: Hold a towel behind your back with both hands and gently move it up and down.
- External Rotation Exercise: Use a resistance band and pull your hand outward while keeping your elbow close to your body.
- Pendulum Exercise: Lean forward, let your affected arm hang down, then gently move it in circular motions.
Treatment Options for Frozen Shoulder
- Physical Therapy: Helps improve flexibility and reduce pain through consistent exercises and stretches.
- Anti-inflammatory Medications: Pain relievers or corticosteroids to reduce pain and inflammation.
- Injection Therapy: The joint may be injected with substances to alleviate pain and enhance mobility.
- Surgical Intervention: Used in severe cases that do not respond to physical therapy.
Prevention of Frozen Shoulder
- Avoid keeping the shoulder immobilized for long periods after an injury or surgery.
- Engage in regular stretching and movement exercises.
- Maintain proper posture while sitting.
- Manage chronic conditions such as diabetes to reduce the risk of developing frozen shoulder.
Frozen shoulder is a common condition but can be treated effectively if managed properly. It is important to consult a doctor when experiencing symptoms of frozen shoulder to determine the best course of treatment and restore normal shoulder movement.
Commitment to physical therapy and home exercises plays a crucial role in accelerating recovery and improving the quality of life for frozen shoulder patients.
Frequently Asked Questions About Frozen Shoulder
What causes frozen shoulder?
Frozen shoulder can occur due to reduced movement following an injury, surgery, or chronic conditions such as diabetes.
What are the symptoms of frozen shoulder?
The main symptoms include persistent pain, stiffness, and difficulty in moving the shoulder and lifting the arm.
How long does it take to treat frozen shoulder?
Treatment can take several months, sometimes up to two years, depending on the severity and adherence to physical therapy.
Can frozen shoulder be treated without surgery?
Yes, most cases improve with physical therapy and exercises, but in severe cases, surgical intervention may be required.
What are the best exercises for treating frozen shoulder?
Effective exercises include wall walk, towel stretch, and external rotation using a resistance band.