Adhesive capsulitis, also referred to as frozen shoulder in medicine, is a painful ailment that affects the shoulder joint and causes stiffness and a restricted range of motion. It frequently happens as a result of the shoulder joint capsule being inflamed and thickened, which causes the tissues to stiffen and adhere. To aid you in regaining mobility and reducing pain, we will examine the causes, signs, phases, and possible treatments for a frozen shoulder in this in-depth guide.
Although the precise origin of frozen shoulder is not always known, some things can make you more likely to get the illness.
Causes of Frozen Shoulder:
a) Inflammatory Conditions: Arthritis and bursitis are two conditions that can cause inflammation in the shoulder joint, which can result in a frozen shoulder.
b) Immobility or Injury: Long-term shoulder immobility brought on by an injury, surgery, or other disorders that restrict motion can hasten the development of a frozen shoulder.
c) Systemic Conditions: Frozen shoulder is more likely to develop in those who have certain systemic conditions, such as diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and thyroid disorders.
The signs and symptoms of a frozen shoulder typically appear gradually and move through various stages. Typical signs include:
a) Shoulder Pain: Ongoing, frequently severe pain in the shoulder joint, especially when moving.
b) Limited Range of Motion: This condition restricts the shoulder’s range of motion, making daily tasks difficult.
c) Stiffness: As the shoulder joint stiffens, it becomes more challenging to raise the arm or carry out basic movements like reaching behind the back.
d) Sleep Interruptions Due to Painful Nights: Many people report feeling more pain and discomfort at night.
If you are suffering from any of the above given symptoms, book your appointment now with our expert Orthopedic doctor at Al Hilal Hospitals.
There are commonly four stages of frozen shoulder, each of which has its own set of symptoms:
a) Stage 1 – Freezing: As pain and stiffness progressively worsen, range of motion steadily decreases. This stage may continue for a few weeks to several months.
b) Stage 2 – Frozen: While the pain may go away, the shoulder stiffens up dramatically and becomes even more immobile. This phase may extend for four to six months.
c) Stage 3 – Thawing: The stiffness progressively decreases and the shoulder starts to regain some range of motion. This stage might last for months or even years.
d) Recovery Stage 4: Most people regain near-normal or complete range of motion in their shoulders at this stage. Up to two years may be needed to finish this phase.
Your healthcare professional may carry out a number of physical exams, including the following, to identify a frozen shoulder:
The doctor will do a range-of-motion test on your shoulder joint to determine any restrictions.
b) X-rays or an MRI: Imaging tests may be prescribed to rule out other problems and to see the tissues around the shoulder joint and its structure.
Treatments for frozen shoulders:
Conservative Approaches:
- Physical therapy: Through targeted exercises and stretches, a physical therapy program can help increase range of motion and lessen pain.
- Pain management: To treat pain and inflammation, over-the-counter painkillers or prescription drugs may be suggested.
- Applying heat or ice to the affected area might reduce inflammation and offer momentary relief.
- Home Exercises: Maintaining shoulder mobility can be facilitated by performing the daily home exercises advised by a physical therapist.
c) Surgery for a frozen shoulder
Your healthcare professional might recommend surgery in extreme circumstances where conservative therapy has failed. The two main surgical techniques for frozen shoulders are:
- Manipulation Under Anaesthesia (MUA): During this operation, the patient is put under anesthesia and the shoulder joint is moved in order to loosen adhesions and increase range of motion.
- Arthroscopic Release: In this minimally invasive procedure, the doctor makes a small incision through the tense capsule to cut away the adhesions and enhance shoulder mobility.
Fixing a Frozen Shoulder at Home
In addition to receiving expert medical care, you can also try several at-home cures:
a) Mild Stretching: To improve shoulder flexibility, use mild stretching activities.
b) Warm Compress: Before engaging in shoulder workouts, applying a warm compress to the area might help release the muscles and lessen stiffness.
c) Rest: Make sure the injured shoulder has enough rest while it heals by avoiding overusing it.
Exercises for Frozen Shoulders:
Exercise on a regular basis is essential for treating frozen shoulders. Several efficient exercises include:
a) Pendulum stretch: Lean forward while supporting your body with the unaffected arm, letting the affected arm drop down. Gently move the arm in both clockwise and anticlockwise tiny circles.
b) Cross-Body Reach: Lift and stretch the injured arm across your body gently using the unaffected arm.
c) Wall Climbing: While facing a wall, slowly raise your arm as high as you can by using your fingers to ‘climb’ up the wall.
Although every person’s frozen shoulder recovery time is different, the following advice may help hasten the process:
a) Early Diagnosis: To start therapy as soon as feasible, seek medical help as soon as you have shoulder discomfort or stiffness.
b) Follow Treatment: Strictly follow your doctor’s instructions for taking your medications and participating in physical therapy exercises.
c) Maintain an active lifestyle; however, avoid activities that put an undue amount of stress on the shoulder joint.
To locate a strategy that will work for your situation, look through all of the available non-surgical solutions for treating frozen shoulders. Call us to make an appointment.
To get a precise diagnosis and a customized treatment plan for shoulder pain or stiffness, book a consultation with our experienced orthopaedic doctor at Al Hilal Hospitals
