Frozen Shoulder, also called Adhesive Capsulitis, is a painful condition that causes stiffness, pain and restriction in movement of the shoulder. The connective tissue surrounding the shoulder joint, known as the shoulder capsule, becomes stiff and inflamed causing discomfort and pain. The condition most commonly affects people between the ages of 40 and 60 and is seen more in women.
Causes
- Limited movement after a surgery or fracture
- Arthritis
- Osteoporosis
- Hypothyroidism
- Hyperthyroidism
- Parkinson's disease
- Cardiac disease
- Diabetes
Symptoms
The symptoms of Frozen Shoulder can be divided in three progressive phases:
- Freezing Phase: This phase begins with stiffness of the shoulder, which is marked by intermittent pain in the shoulder region. It may last for about three to eight months with mild stiffness.
- Frozen Phase: This is also known as ‘adhesive phase’ and lasts about four to twelve months. It is characterized by increased stiffness, pain in muscles and lack of arm movement.
- Thawing Phase: The thawing or ‘recovery phase’ of Frozen Shoulder lasts for about twelve to 42 months. There is stiffness and pain in the shoulder, which is less severe and improves with time.
Diagnosis
In order to diagnose the condition, the orthopedic doctor may perform a physical test to check the range of motion of the patient’s arm. The doctor can ask details about the patient’s medical history and look for inflammation or bruising around the shoulder area. The doctor may also recommend certain imaging tests like X-ray and MRI to determine the extent and cause of the condition.
In order to diagnose the condition, the orthopedic doctor may perform a physical test to check the range of motion of the patient’s arm. The doctor can ask details about the patient’s medical history and look for inflammation or bruising around the shoulder area. The doctor may also recommend certain imaging tests like X-ray and MRI to determine the extent and cause of the condition.
Treatment
Depending upon the severity of the condition, the orthopedic surgeon may suggest the following treatment options:
Depending upon the severity of the condition, the orthopedic surgeon may suggest the following treatment options:
- Medication: The orthopedic doctor may prescribe anti-inflammatory medications to reduce pain and inflammation in the affected joint.
- Physical Therapy: The patient may be recommended to visit a physical therapist to improve flexibility and movement of the shoulder.
- Surgery: In case non-surgical treatment doesn’t offer the desired results the orthopedic surgeon can recommend surgery. During the procedure the scarred tissue is surgically removed to provide full range of motion to the shoulder joint. The doctor can prescribe physical therapy after the surgery for proper rehabilitation.
If left untreated, Frozen Shoulder can worsen with time and cause severe pain. Thus, as soon as the symptoms appear it is advised that one must consult an orthopedic doctor for proper diagnosis and treatment. The focus of the treatment is to restore motion and offer relief from pain.
