Understanding Frozen Shoulder: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options
Frozen shoulder, also known as adhesive capsulitis, is a painful and debilitating condition characterized by stiffness, pain, and limited range of motion in the shoulder joint. This condition can significantly impact daily activities and quality of life.
What is Frozen Shoulder?
Frozen shoulder is a condition that affects the shoulder joint, causing inflammation and thickening of the capsule surrounding the joint. This leads to the gradual development of scar tissue and adhesions, which restrict movement and result in stiffness and pain. Frozen shoulder typically progresses through three stages:
Freezing Stage: In this initial phase, individuals experience increasing shoulder pain and stiffness, particularly at night. Range of motion gradually becomes limited, making it difficult to perform daily activities.
Frozen Stage: During this stage, shoulder stiffness and pain may persist, and range of motion becomes severely restricted. Simple tasks such as reaching overhead or behind the back may be challenging or impossible.
Thawing Stage: In the final stage, shoulder stiffness gradually improves, and range of motion begins to return. However, this process may take several months to years to complete fully.
Causes of Frozen Shoulder:
The exact cause of frozen shoulder is not fully understood, but several factors may contribute to its development, including:
Inflammation: Inflammation of the shoulder capsule, often triggered by injury, surgery, or underlying medical conditions, may lead to the formation of scar tissue and adhesions.
Immobilization: Prolonged immobilization of the shoulder joint, such as wearing a sling after surgery or injury, can contribute to the development of frozen shoulder by restricting movement and promoting the accumulation of scar tissue.
Medical Conditions: Certain medical conditions, such as diabetes, thyroid disorders, or autoimmune diseases, may increase the risk of developing frozen shoulder. These conditions can affect joint health and contribute to inflammation and stiffness.
Symptoms of Frozen Shoulder:
The hallmark symptoms of frozen shoulder include:
Persistent shoulder pain, particularly during movement or at rest.
Stiffness and limited range of motion in the shoulder joint, making it difficult to perform daily activities.
Gradual onset of symptoms, often progressing over weeks to months.
Painful or restricted movement, particularly when reaching overhead, behind the back, or across the body.
Treatment for Frozen Shoulder:
Treatment for frozen shoulder aims to relieve pain, improve range of motion, and restore shoulder function. Depending on the severity of symptoms, treatment options may include:
Physical Therapy: Gentle stretching exercises and manual therapy techniques can help improve flexibility, reduce stiffness, and restore range of motion in the shoulder joint.
Pain Management: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), corticosteroid injections, or pain-relieving medications may be prescribed to alleviate pain and reduce inflammation in the shoulder.
Joint Mobilization: In some cases, manipulation under anesthesia (MUA) or arthroscopic surgery may be recommended to break up adhesions and scar tissue and improve shoulder mobility.
Home Exercises: Performing prescribed exercises and stretches at home can help maintain shoulder mobility and prevent further stiffness.
Frozen shoulder is a painful and restrictive condition that can significantly impact shoulder function and quality of life. Early recognition and intervention are crucial for managing symptoms and preventing long-term complications. If you're experiencing persistent shoulder pain or stiffness, it's essential to consult with a healthcare professional for a thorough evaluation and personalized treatment plan tailored to your specific needs. With proper management and treatment, individuals with frozen shoulder can experience relief and regain mobility in their shoulder joint.
Dr. Schottenstein is one of the top pain management doctors in NY. If you are in the New York City or Miami area and would like to discuss your pain and treatment options, connect with the NY Spine Medicine team.