Frozen shoulder, also known as adhesive capsulitis, is a debilitating condition that causes pain and stiffness in the shoulder joint. It commonly affects individuals between the ages of 40 and 60, and is more prevalent in women than men.

The condition involves inflammation and thickening of the capsule surrounding the shoulder joint, leading to limited range of motion and decreased flexibility.

Causes

The exact cause of frozen shoulder is still unknown, but there are several factors that can increase the risk of developing this condition. These include:.

Diabetes: Individuals with diabetes are more prone to developing frozen shoulder.
Previous shoulder injury: A previous shoulder injury or surgery can lead to the development of adhesive capsulitis.
Immobility: Prolonged immobility of the shoulder joint due to conditions such as stroke or recovery from surgery can increase the risk.
Hormonal imbalances: Certain hormonal imbalances, such as thyroid disorders, can contribute to the development of frozen shoulder.

Symptoms

The main symptom of frozen shoulder is pain and stiffness that gradually worsens over time. The three stages of frozen shoulder include:.

1. Freezing stage:

In this stage, there is a gradual onset of pain and stiffness in the shoulder. The pain may worsen at night and can be particularly sharp with certain movements.

2. Frozen stage:

The shoulder becomes increasingly stiff, making it difficult to perform even simple daily activities. Pain may begin to subside during this stage, but the stiffness remains.

3. Thawing stage:

In the final stage, the range of motion slowly improves, and shoulder functionality gradually returns to normal. This stage can last anywhere from several months to years.

Diagnosis

Diagnosing frozen shoulder involves a physical examination by a healthcare professional. The examination typically includes an evaluation of the range of motion and an assessment of pain levels.

Imaging tests, such as X-rays or MRI scans, may be ordered to rule out other conditions such as rotator cuff tears or arthritis.

Treatment

Treatment options for frozen shoulder focus on reducing pain, improving range of motion, and restoring shoulder function. These may include:.

Physical therapy: Gentle stretching exercises and physical therapy can help improve range of motion and relieve stiffness.
Pain medication: Over-the-counter pain relievers or prescribed medication may be recommended to manage pain and inflammation.
Steroid injections: Corticosteroid injections directly into the shoulder joint can help reduce inflammation and relieve pain.
Hydrodilatation: This procedure involves injecting sterile water into the shoulder joint to stretch and expand the capsule, providing relief from stiffness.
Surgery: In severe cases where other treatments have not been successful, a surgical procedure called shoulder manipulation or arthroscopy may be recommended to release the stiffened capsule and improve range of motion.