Frozen Shoulder
Frozen shoulder, also known as adhesive capsulitis, is a condition characterized by stiffness, pain, and limited range of motion in the shoulder joint. It typically develops gradually over time and can significantly impact daily activities and quality of life.
Causes and Risk Factors:
The exact cause of frozen shoulder is often unknown, but several factors may contribute:
Immobilization: Prolonged immobilization of the shoulder joint, such as after surgery, injury, or prolonged immobilization due to other medical conditions.
Diabetes: Individuals with diabetes are at a higher risk of developing frozen shoulder.
Other Health Conditions: Conditions such as thyroid disorders, cardiovascular disease, or Parkinson’s disease may increase susceptibility.
Age and Gender: People aged 40 and older, particularly women, are more prone to developing frozen shoulder.
Symptoms:
Pain: Persistent dull or aching pain in the shoulder joint, often worse at night.
Stiffness: Gradual onset of stiffness in the shoulder joint, making it difficult to perform daily tasks such as reaching overhead or behind the back.
Limited Range of Motion: Decreased ability to move the shoulder joint, especially in external rotation and abduction.
Diagnosis and Treatment:
Diagnosis is typically made through a physical examination, reviewing symptoms, and imaging tests like X-rays or MRI to rule out other causes.
Treatment options include:
Physical Therapy: Stretching and range-of-motion exercises to improve shoulder flexibility and strength.
Medications: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) or corticosteroid injections to reduce pain and inflammation.
Hydrodilatation: A procedure where saline is injected into the shoulder joint to stretch and expand the capsule, allowing for improved mobility.
Surgery: In severe cases where conservative treatments fail, surgical intervention to release the tight capsule may be considered.
Recovery:
Recovery from frozen shoulder can be slow, often taking several months to years. Early intervention with physical therapy and pain management can help minimize symptoms and improve shoulder function over time.
