Frozen Shoulder
Frozen shoulder, also known as adhesive capsulitis, is a condition that causes pain and stiffness in the shoulder joint. It typically develops gradually over time, and the exact cause is not always clear. Frozen shoulder can be quite painful and significantly restrict the range of motion in the affected shoulder. Understanding the symptoms, causes, and treatment options is important for managing this condition.
Key Characteristics of Frozen Shoulder:
Pain: The hallmark symptom is persistent pain in the shoulder, which can range from a dull ache to sharp pain. The pain is often worse at night and may interfere with sleep.
Stiffness: As the condition progresses, the shoulder becomes increasingly stiff. This stiffness can significantly limit the ability to move the shoulder, especially when trying to lift the arm or rotate it.
Loss of Range of Motion: The reduced range of motion is a significant feature of frozen shoulder. Activities that involve reaching overhead, behind the back, or out to the side become challenging.
Phases: Frozen shoulder usually develops in three stages: the freezing stage (pain and increasing stiffness), the frozen stage (persistent stiffness), and the thawing stage (gradual improvement in motion).
Causes and Risk Factors:
The exact cause of frozen shoulder is not fully understood, but certain factors increase the risk:
Age and Gender: It’s more common in individuals between 40 and 60 years of age, and it’s more prevalent in women.
Underlying Health Conditions: Certain conditions, such as diabetes, cardiovascular disease, thyroid disorders, and autoimmune diseases, seem to be associated with an increased risk of developing frozen shoulder.
Immobility: Shoulder immobility due to injury, surgery, or prolonged immobilization may contribute to the development of frozen shoulder.
Treatment and Management:
Physical Therapy: Gentle stretching exercises prescribed by a physical therapist can help maintain and gradually improve the shoulder’s range of motion.
Pain Management: Over-the-counter pain medications or prescribed pain relief may be recommended to manage discomfort.
Heat/Cold Therapy: Applying ice packs to reduce inflammation or using heat to relax the shoulder muscles can provide relief.
Surgical Intervention (in rare cases): Surgery may be considered if other treatments are not effective.
If you suspect you have frozen shoulder, it’s important to consult a healthcare provider for a proper evaluation and treatment plan. They can help manage the pain, improve the range of motion, and guide you through the phases of the condition.
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