Frozen Shoulder

Frozen shoulder, also known as adhesive capsulitis, is a condition characterized by stiffness and pain in the shoulder joint. It occurs when the connective tissue surrounding the shoulder joint, known as the capsule, becomes inflamed and scarred, leading to restricted movement.

Causes of Frozen Shoulder

The exact cause of frozen shoulder is not fully understood, but it is often associated with:

• Immobilization or reduced mobility of the shoulder joint, such as after surgery or injury
• Degenerative conditions, such as osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis
• Diabetes, which can affect the nerves and joints
• Thyroid disorders, such as hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism
• Parkinson's disease, which can cause stiffness and rigidity in the muscles

Symptoms of Frozen Shoulder

The symptoms of frozen shoulder typically progress through three stages:

1. Freezing stage: The shoulder becomes stiff and painful, making it difficult to move. This stage can last from 2-9 months.
2. Frozen stage: The pain may decrease, but the stiffness and limited mobility persist. This stage can last from 4-12 months.
3. Thawing stage: The shoulder gradually regains its range of motion, and the pain and stiffness decrease. This stage can last from 5-24 months.

Treatments for Frozen Shoulder

The treatment for frozen shoulder typically involves a combination of the following:

• Pain management: Over-the-counter pain medications, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, can help alleviate pain and inflammation.
• Physical therapy: Gentle exercises and stretches can help improve range of motion and reduce stiffness. A physical therapist can also provide guidance on proper posture and movement techniques.
• Corticosteroid injections: Injecting corticosteroids into the shoulder joint can help reduce inflammation and pain.
• Joint distension: Injecting fluid into the shoulder joint to stretch the capsule and improve range of motion.
• Surgery: In severe cases, surgery may be necessary to release the contracted tissues and improve mobility. This is usually done arthroscopically, using a small camera and instruments inserted through tiny incisions.

Home Remedies for Frozen Shoulder

In addition to medical treatment, there are several home remedies that can help alleviate symptoms:

• Apply heat or cold packs: Applying heat or cold packs to the affected area can help reduce pain and stiffness.
• Use a shoulder roll: Using a shoulder roll while sleeping can help maintain proper posture and reduce strain on the shoulder joint.
• Practice good posture: Maintaining good posture can help reduce strain on the shoulder joint and improve range of motion.
• Engage in gentle exercises: Gentle exercises, such as pendulum stretches and wall slides, can help improve range of motion and reduce stiffness.

Prevention of Frozen Shoulder

To prevent frozen shoulder, it is essential to:

• Maintain a healthy weight: Excess weight can put strain on the joints, increasing the risk of developing frozen shoulder.
• Stay active: Regular exercise can help maintain flexibility and range of motion in the shoulders.
• Avoid prolonged immobilization: Avoid keeping the shoulder joint immobile for extended periods, as this can lead to stiffness and reduced mobility.
• Manage underlying conditions: Managing underlying conditions, such as diabetes or thyroid disorders, can help reduce the risk of developing frozen shoulder.