Frozen shoulder, also known as adhesive capsulitis, is a condition that causes pain and stiffness in the shoulder joint. People with diabetes have a higher risk of developing frozen shoulder compared to those without diabetes.

This article explores the link between these two conditions and what you can do to prevent or manage them.

What is Frozen Shoulder?

Frozen shoulder is a condition that affects the shoulder joint. It typically occurs in people between the ages of 40 and 60 and is more common in women than men.

The exact cause of frozen shoulder is unknown, but it is characterized by the gradual onset of pain and stiffness in the shoulder joint, which can make it difficult to move your arm.

The condition typically develops slowly, and there are three stages of frozen shoulder:.

Freezing stage: This is when the shoulder becomes painful and stiff, making it difficult to move. This stage can last anywhere from a few weeks to several months.
Frozen stage: At this stage, the pain may begin to subside, but the shoulder remains very stiff, making it difficult to move.
Thawing stage: During this stage, the shoulder begins to loosen up, and the range of motion gradually improves. This stage can last several months to a year.

The Link Between Diabetes and Frozen Shoulder

Research has shown that people with diabetes are at a higher risk of developing frozen shoulder compared to those without diabetes. In fact, up to 20 percent of people with diabetes may develop frozen shoulder at some point in their lives.

The reason for the link between diabetes and frozen shoulder is not yet fully understood. However, high blood sugar levels are known to cause inflammation and damage to the tissues in the body.

This inflammation and damage can affect the shoulder joint, leading to the development of frozen shoulder.

In addition to high blood sugar levels, other factors that may increase the risk of developing frozen shoulder in people with diabetes include:.

Age: Frozen shoulder is more common in people between the ages of 40 and 60.
Gender: Women are more likely than men to develop frozen shoulder.
Duration of diabetes: People with long-standing diabetes are more likely to develop frozen shoulder than those with newly diagnosed diabetes.
Glycemic control: Poor glycemic control, or high blood sugar levels, may increase the risk of developing frozen shoulder.
Other complications of diabetes: People with diabetes who have other complications, such as neuropathy, may be at an increased risk of developing frozen shoulder.

Symptoms of Frozen Shoulder

The symptoms of frozen shoulder can vary from person to person and may include:.

Pain and stiffness in the shoulder joint
Difficulty moving the shoulder
Difficulty sleeping due to shoulder pain
Loss of strength in the shoulder muscle
Restricted range of motion in the shoulder joint

In some cases, frozen shoulder can affect both shoulders at the same time, although this is less common.

Diagnosing Frozen Shoulder

If you are experiencing symptoms of frozen shoulder, your doctor will likely perform a physical exam and take your medical history.

They may also order imaging tests, such as an X-ray or MRI, to rule out other possible causes of your symptoms, such as a rotator cuff tear.

Your doctor may also perform a test called the “Shoulder External Rotation Test.” During this test, you will lie on your back with your arm at your side. Your doctor will then lift your arm and rotate it outward.

If you have frozen shoulder, you may experience pain or a limited range of motion during this test.

Treatments for Frozen Shoulder

There is no known cure for frozen shoulder, but the condition can be managed with a variety of treatments, including:.

Physical therapy: Your doctor may refer you to a physical therapist who can help you improve your range of motion and reduce pain in your shoulder.
Pain medication: Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, may be recommended to help manage pain associated with frozen shoulder.
Corticosteroid injections: Injections of corticosteroid medications directly into the shoulder joint can help reduce inflammation and pain associated with frozen shoulder.
Surgery: In rare cases, surgery may be necessary to release the adhesions in the shoulder joint and improve range of motion.

Preventing Frozen Shoulder in People with Diabetes

While there is no surefire way to prevent frozen shoulder, there are several steps that people with diabetes can take to reduce their risk of developing the condition:.

Control your blood sugar levels: Maintaining good glycemic control is one of the best ways to prevent complications of diabetes, including frozen shoulder.
Exercise regularly: Regular exercise can help maintain flexibility and mobility in the shoulder joint, reducing the risk of developing frozen shoulder.
Avoid prolonged immobilization: People who have had shoulder surgery or an injury should work with their doctor to avoid prolonged immobilization, as this can increase the risk of developing frozen shoulder.

Conclusion

Frozen shoulder is a common condition that affects the shoulder joint, causing pain and stiffness.

People with diabetes are at a higher risk of developing frozen shoulder compared to those without diabetes, and the link between the two conditions is not yet fully understood. While there is no known cure for frozen shoulder, the condition can be managed with a variety of treatments, and people with diabetes can take steps to reduce their risk of developing the condition.