Frozen Shoulder (Adhesive Capsulitis): Symptoms, Causes, Treatment

What are the symptoms of frozen shoulder?

Frozen shoulder, also known as adhesive capsulitis, is a condition characterized by stiffness and pain in the shoulder joint. The symptoms typically develop gradually and can worsen over time. Common symptoms of frozen shoulder include:

1. Pain: Persistent pain in the shoulder that may worsen at night or with movement.
2. Stiffness: Limited range of motion in the shoulder joint, making it difficult to perform daily activities such as reaching overhead or behind the back.
3. Loss of Range of Motion: Progressive loss of shoulder movement, with the shoulder becoming increasingly difficult to move.
4. Difficulty Sleeping: Pain and stiffness in the shoulder can make it difficult to find a comfortable sleeping position.
5. Muscle Weakness: Weakness in the muscles surrounding the shoulder joint due to lack of use.
6. Painful Activities: Pain or discomfort when performing activities that involve shoulder movement, such as reaching, lifting, or carrying objects.
7. Painful to Touch: The shoulder may be sensitive to touch, and pressure on the joint may cause pain.

It’s important to see a healthcare provider if you experience symptoms of frozen shoulder, as early treatment can help prevent further stiffness and improve mobility.

What are the causes of frozen shoulder?

The exact cause of frozen shoulder is not always clear, but several factors can increase the risk of developing this condition. Some possible causes and risk factors include:

1. Immobility or Reduced Mobility: Prolonged immobility or reduced mobility of the shoulder joint, such as after surgery, injury, or stroke, can increase the risk of developing frozen shoulder.
2. Inflammation: Inflammation of the shoulder joint, either from an injury, surgery, or conditions such as arthritis, can lead to the thickening and tightening of the shoulder capsule, restricting movement.
3. Diabetes: People with diabetes are at a higher risk of developing frozen shoulder, although the exact reason for this is not fully understood.
4. Other Health Conditions: Certain health conditions such as thyroid disorders, cardiovascular disease, and Parkinson’s disease may increase the risk of developing frozen shoulder.
5. Age and Gender: Frozen shoulder is more common in people aged 40 to 60 and is more common in women than men.
6. Previous Shoulder Injury or Surgery: People who have had a previous shoulder injury or surgery are at a higher risk of developing frozen shoulder.
7. Genetics: There may be a genetic component to frozen shoulder, as it tends to run in families.

It’s important to note that while these factors may increase the risk of developing frozen shoulder, the exact cause can vary from person to person.

How is the diagnosis of frozen shoulder made?

The diagnosis of frozen shoulder is typically based on a combination of medical history, physical examination, and imaging tests. Here’s how it’s typically diagnosed:

1. Medical History: Your healthcare provider will ask about your symptoms, when they started, and any previous injuries or conditions that may be related to your shoulder pain and stiffness.
2. Physical Examination: Your healthcare provider will examine your shoulder, checking for range of motion, strength, and any areas of tenderness.
3. Imaging Tests: While not always necessary, imaging tests such as X-rays or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) may be used to rule out other causes of shoulder pain and stiffness, such as arthritis or a rotator cuff tear.
4. Diagnostic Tests: In some cases, your healthcare provider may perform specific tests to assess the range of motion and function of your shoulder joint. These tests can help confirm a diagnosis of frozen shoulder.

Based on the results of these tests, your healthcare provider can make a diagnosis and recommend a treatment plan. Early diagnosis and treatment of frozen shoulder are important to help prevent further stiffness and improve shoulder mobility.

What is the treatment for frozen shoulder?

The treatment for frozen shoulder aims to reduce pain and stiffness, improve shoulder mobility, and restore function. Treatment options may include:

1. Pain Relief: Over-the-counter pain medications such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen may help reduce pain and inflammation.
2. Physical Therapy: Gentle stretching and strengthening exercises prescribed by a physical therapist can help improve shoulder mobility and function.
3. Heat or Cold Therapy: Applying heat or cold to the shoulder can help reduce pain and stiffness. Heat can help relax muscles, while cold can help reduce inflammation.
4. Steroid Injections: Corticosteroid injections into the shoulder joint can help reduce pain and inflammation, allowing for better movement.
5. Joint Distension: In some cases, a procedure called joint distension may be recommended. This involves injecting sterile water into the shoulder joint to help stretch the capsule and improve mobility.
6. Manipulation Under Anesthesia (MUA): In severe cases where other treatments have not been effective, MUA may be recommended. This involves manipulating the shoulder joint while the patient is under anesthesia to help loosen the tight capsule.
7. Surgery: In rare cases, surgery may be recommended to release the tight capsule and improve shoulder mobility. This is usually considered only after other treatments have been tried and failed.

It’s important to work closely with your healthcare provider to develop a treatment plan that is right for you. Frozen shoulder can be a long-term condition, and treatment may take time to be effective.

Does frozen shoulder heal on its own?

Frozen shoulder can resolve on its own, but this process can take several months to years. The condition typically progresses through three stages:

1. Freezing Stage: This initial stage is characterized by increasing pain and stiffness in the shoulder. Range of motion becomes limited.
2. Frozen Stage: Pain may begin to diminish during this stage, but stiffness remains. Daily activities may still be difficult to perform.
3. Thawing Stage: Shoulder movement gradually improves during this stage, and most or all of the range of motion is usually restored over time.

While frozen shoulder may resolve on its own, treatment can help manage symptoms, reduce pain, and speed up recovery. Physical therapy, pain medications, and sometimes steroid injections or other treatments can be beneficial in managing the condition and improving shoulder mobility. If you suspect you have frozen shoulder, it’s important to see a healthcare provider for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment plan.