Frozen shoulder, medically known as adhesive capsulitis, is a condition characterized by stiffness and pain in the shoulder joint. It typically develops slowly and can significantly impact your quality of life. In this blog, Dr. Jaya Krishna Reddy shares insights on the causes, symptoms, and treatment options for frozen shoulder to help you understand and manage this condition better.
Understanding Frozen Shoulder
Frozen shoulder often begins with mild symptoms that gradually worsen over time. It is essential to recognize the early signs to seek timely intervention and prevent severe mobility issues.
Causes of Frozen Shoulder
The exact cause of frozen shoulder is not fully understood, but several factors can contribute to its development:
- Injury or Surgery: Trauma to the shoulder or recent surgery can trigger a frozen shoulder. The body's natural response to protect the joint can lead to stiffness.
- Medical Conditions: Conditions like diabetes, thyroid disorders, and cardiovascular disease are associated with an increased risk of developing a frozen shoulder.
- Prolonged Immobilization: Lack of movement due to an injury or surgery can lead to the development of a frozen shoulder.
Symptoms of Frozen Shoulder
Frozen shoulder typically progresses through three stages:
- Freezing Stage: Pain and stiffness gradually increase, limiting shoulder movement. This stage can last from six weeks to nine months.
- Frozen Stage: Pain may begin to diminish, but the shoulder remains stiff. Daily activities become challenging, and this stage can last from four to six months.
- Thawing Stage: Shoulder movement gradually improves, and stiffness decreases. Full recovery can take anywhere from six months to two years.
Frozen Shoulder Diagnosis
Diagnosing a frozen shoulder involves a physical examination and a review of your medical history. Your doctor may ask about your symptoms, any recent injuries, and medical conditions that might be contributing to the problem. Imaging tests, such as X-rays or MRI scans, may be used to rule out other shoulder issues.
Managing Frozen Shoulder
Effective management of a frozen shoulder involves a combination of treatments aimed at reducing pain and improving shoulder mobility:
- Physical Therapy: A physical therapist can design a personalized exercise program to improve shoulder flexibility and strength. Consistent physical therapy is crucial for recovery.
- Medications: Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or aspirin can help manage pain and reduce inflammation. In some cases, corticosteroid injections may be recommended.
- Heat and Cold Therapy: Applying heat or cold packs to the shoulder can help reduce pain and swelling.
- Shoulder Mobility Tips: Gentle stretching exercises and shoulder mobility tips can aid in maintaining range of motion. It's essential to avoid activities that cause pain.
Treatment Options for Frozen Shoulder
In severe cases, more intensive treatments may be required:
- Hydrodilatation: This procedure involves injecting a sterile fluid into the shoulder joint to stretch the capsule and improve movement.
- Manipulation Under Anesthesia (MUA): In this procedure, the patient is put to sleep, and the doctor manually moves the shoulder to break up adhesions.
- Surgery: If conservative treatments fail, arthroscopic surgery may be necessary to release the tightened capsule.
Frozen shoulder can be a challenging condition, but with the right approach, you can manage your symptoms and regain mobility. If you're experiencing shoulder stiffness or pain, consult a healthcare professional for a proper diagnosis and personalized treatment plan. Contact us today to learn more about our comprehensive treatment options.