Frozen shoulder, medically known as adhesive capsulitis, is a condition characterized by stiffness and pain in your shoulder joint. This occurs when the capsule of connective tissue surrounding the shoulder joint thickens and tightens, restricting movement. The onset of frozen shoulder is typically gradual, worsening over time before eventually improving, usually within one to three years.
Prolonged immobility of the shoulder significantly increases the risk of developing frozen shoulder. This can be a consequence of post-surgical recovery or injuries like a broken arm that necessitate keeping the shoulder still.
Treatment strategies for frozen shoulder primarily involve range-of-motion exercises aimed at restoring mobility. In some cases, healthcare providers may recommend corticosteroid injections or numbing medications directly into the joint to alleviate pain and facilitate movement. While rare, arthroscopic surgery might be considered to release the tightened joint capsule, allowing for greater freedom of movement.
Recurrence of frozen shoulder in the same shoulder is uncommon. However, some individuals may experience it in the opposite shoulder, generally within a five-year timeframe.
Symptoms of Frozen Shoulder: Progressing Through Stages
Frozen shoulder typically progresses through three distinct stages, each with varying characteristics:
The Freezing Stage
This initial phase is marked by any shoulder movement triggering pain, and a progressive limitation in the shoulder’s range of motion. The freezing stage can last anywhere from two to nine months.
The Frozen Stage
During this stage, the pain may start to subside, but the stiffness in the shoulder intensifies. Daily activities that require shoulder movement become increasingly challenging. This phase typically lasts for four to twelve months.
The Thawing Stage
In the thawing stage, the shoulder’s range of motion gradually begins to improve. Full or near-full recovery is often achieved. This stage can extend from five to twenty-four months.
It’s worth noting that for many individuals, the pain associated with frozen shoulder can intensify at night, frequently disrupting sleep patterns.
What Causes Frozen Shoulder? Exploring the Underlying Factors
The shoulder joint is encased within a capsule of connective tissue. Frozen shoulder develops when this capsule thickens and contracts around the shoulder joint, thereby restricting its natural movement.
The exact reasons why some individuals develop frozen shoulder are not fully understood. However, it is more frequently observed following periods of shoulder immobilization, such as after surgical procedures or arm fractures.
Risk Factors for Frozen Shoulder: Who is More Susceptible?
Several factors can elevate the likelihood of developing frozen shoulder:
Age and Gender
Individuals aged 40 and above, particularly women, are more prone to experiencing frozen shoulder.
Immobility and Reduced Shoulder Mobility
Conditions necessitating prolonged shoulder immobility are significant risk factors. Restricted movement can arise from various situations, including:
- Rotator cuff injuries
- Arm fractures
- Stroke
- Post-surgical recovery periods
Systemic Diseases
Certain systemic diseases are associated with an increased risk of frozen shoulder. These conditions include:
- Diabetes mellitus
- Hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid)
- Hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid)
- Cardiovascular disease
- Parkinson’s disease
Prevention Strategies for Frozen Shoulder
One of the most prevalent causes of frozen shoulder is the lack of shoulder movement during recovery from shoulder injuries, broken arms, or strokes. If you have experienced an injury that limits your shoulder mobility, consulting with your healthcare provider about appropriate exercises to maintain shoulder joint movement is crucial for prevention. By engaging in recommended exercises, you can significantly reduce your risk of developing frozen shoulder and promote a smoother recovery.
