Frozen Shoulder: Understanding Stiffness and Pain in the Shoulder Joint
Frozen shoulder, medically known as adhesive capsulitis, is a condition characterized by stiffness and pain in the shoulder joint. Let’s delve into the details:
Overview:
- Frozen shoulder develops gradually and tends to worsen over time.
- Most individuals experience improvement within 1 to 3 years.
- Prolonged shoulder immobility (due to surgery or arm fractures) increases the risk of developing this condition.
Treatment:
- Range-of-motion exercises play a crucial role in managing frozen shoulder.
- In some cases, corticosteroids and numbing medications are injected into the joint.
- Rarely, arthroscopic surgery may be necessary to loosen the joint capsule and restore movement.
Recurrence:
- While it’s uncommon for frozen shoulder to recur in the same shoulder, it can affect the opposite shoulder within five years.
Symptoms:
- The condition progresses through three stages:
- Freezing Stage (2 to 9 months): Shoulder movement causes pain, and mobility decreases.
- Frozen Stage (4 to 12 months): Pain may decrease, but stiffness intensifies.
- Thawing Stage (5 to 24 months): Shoulder movement gradually improves.
- Some individuals experience worsened pain at night, affecting sleep.
- The condition progresses through three stages:
Causes:
- Frozen shoulder results from thickening and tightening of the connective tissue capsule around the shoulder joint.
- Prolonged shoulder immobility (post-surgery or due to arm fractures) contributes to its development.
Risk Factors:
- Age and Sex: Individuals aged 40 and older, especially women, are more susceptible.
- Immobility or Reduced Mobility: Factors like rotator cuff injuries, broken arms, strokes, or post-surgical recovery increase the risk.
- Systemic Diseases: Conditions such as diabetes, hyperthyroidism, hypothyroidism, cardiovascular disease, and Parkinson’s disease may predispose individuals to frozen shoulder.
Prevention:
- If you’ve experienced shoulder injuries or fractures, consult your healthcare provider. They can recommend exercises to maintain shoulder joint mobility during recovery.
Remember, understanding frozen shoulder empowers you to take proactive steps for better shoulder health! 🌟
