Frozen Shoulder

Frozen shoulder is a condition that causes pain and progressive restriction of movement in the shoulder, negatively affecting quality of life. It is sometimes referred to as adhesive capsulitis. It is a common problem, especially in women between the ages of 40 and 60. While the exact cause is often unknown, it can be caused by past injuries, inappropriate movements, arthritis, muscle tears, or post-surgery. It can also be caused by medical conditions such as diabetes, thyroid problems, cardiovascular disease, tuberculosis, and Parkinson’s disease. It begins with pain and limited movement, eventually becoming a hindrance to daily activities. Over time, it can cause significant loss of movement in the arm and nighttime pain. Symptom duration varies greatly, lasting from weeks to years for those with frozen shoulder.

Stages of Frozen Shoulder

1. Painful Stage: 2-9 months

Pain is the initial symptom, followed by gradual stiffness and restricted movement. Turning the hand towards the back becomes more difficult.

2.Stiffness Stage: 4-12 months

Pain gradually decreases, but stiffness and restricted movement continue and even progress. It becomes difficult to turn the arm outward.

3. Thawing Stage: 1-3 years

This stage is a gradual recovery phase in which pain, stiffness, and restricted movement gradually decrease. In some cases, it can take up to 10 years for full recovery.

The duration of the disease varies from person to person after symptoms begin. It can last from 2 to 10 years. Untreated limited shoulder movements can result in permanent loss of shoulder movements in later life.

Frozen Shoulder Treatment

Medication

In most cases, medication may be sufficient to cope with the pain caused by frozen shoulder. However, sometimes a stronger pain reliever may be necessary.

Physical Therapy

This treatment involves transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS), acupuncture, massage, hot and cold compresses, stretching techniques for relaxation, and exercises specifically for frozen shoulder.

Steroid (Cortisone) Injection

These are corticosteroids applied directly into the joint. This can reduce inflammation and increase shoulder movement.

Shoulder Manipulation

If movement is restricted, anesthesia may help your doctor perform a manipulation to improve shoulder mobility.

Surgery

Surgery can treat severe movement loss by removing tight tissue or adhesions, repairing muscle tears, or releasing scar tissue. It’s done arthroscopically with small incisions and has a short recovery time. Early physical therapy starts after surgery, and daily activities can resume soon.

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