Frozen shoulder, also known as adhesive capsulitis, is a condition that causes pain, stiffness, and limited mobility in the shoulder joint. It typically develops gradually over time and can last for months or even years.

This condition affects many people worldwide and can be frustrating and debilitating. In this article, we will explore frozen shoulder in more detail and look at its causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and available treatment options.

Causes of Frozen Shoulder

The exact cause of frozen shoulder is not fully understood, but there are several factors that can increase your risk of developing this condition. Some potential causes of this condition include:.

Diabetes
Thyroid problems
Cardiovascular disease
Parkinson’s disease
Stroke
Trauma or injury to the shoulder area
Recent surgery

In many cases, frozen shoulder can develop for no apparent reason, and there may be no underlying condition or injury that causes it.

Symptoms of Frozen Shoulder

The symptoms of frozen shoulder typically develop slowly over time and progress through three different phases:.

Phase 1: Freezing

This phase can last from several weeks to several months, and it is characterized by:.

Pain in the shoulder that gets worse at night
Inability to move the shoulder normally
Stiffness in the shoulder joint

Phase 2: Frozen

This phase can last from several months to a year or more, and it is characterized by:.

Decreased pain in the shoulder
Continued stiffness and limited mobility in the shoulder joint

Phase 3: Thawing

This phase can last from several months to several years, and it is characterized by:.

Gradual improvement in shoulder mobility
Full recovery of shoulder mobility

Diagnosing Frozen Shoulder

If you are experiencing shoulder pain, stiffness, and limited mobility, your doctor may conduct a physical exam and take a detailed medical history.

They may also order imaging tests such as X-rays, MRI, or ultrasound to rule out other conditions and to assess the extent of the shoulder’s stiffness and mobility. In some cases, your doctor may also recommend a blood test to check for underlying conditions that could be contributing to your symptoms.

Treatment Options for Frozen Shoulder

The treatment for frozen shoulder usually involves a combination of medication, physical therapy, and at-home exercises. Some common treatment options include:.

Pain medications such as acetaminophen, ibuprofen, or naproxen
Corticosteroid injections to reduce inflammation and pain in the shoulder
Physical therapy to improve shoulder mobility and flexibility
At-home exercises to stretch the shoulder joint and reduce stiffness

In some cases, your doctor may recommend surgery to release the tight capsule surrounding the shoulder joint. This surgery is usually reserved for cases where other treatments have been unsuccessful, and the pain and stiffness persist.

Preventing Frozen Shoulder

There is no guaranteed way to prevent frozen shoulder, but regular exercise and stretching can help keep the shoulder joint flexible and reduce the risk of developing this condition.

Maintaining a healthy weight, maintaining good posture, and avoiding repetitive shoulder movements can also help reduce the risk of developing frozen shoulder.

Conclusion

Frozen shoulder is a common condition that can cause pain, stiffness, and limited mobility in the shoulder joint.

It can be frustrating and debilitating, but the good news is that it is usually temporary and treatable with proper medical care and at-home exercises. If you are experiencing shoulder pain and stiffness, it is essential to see a medical professional for a proper diagnosis and to discuss your treatment options.