Frozen shoulder, medically known as adhesive capsulitis, is a painful and often disabling condition that affects the shoulder joint. It causes stiffness, pain, and reduced range of motion, significantly impacting a person’s ability to perform daily activities. This condition is most common in people aged between 40 and 60 and tends to affect more women than men. According to Dr. Vinil Shinde, a trusted orthopedic specialist in Kothrud, early recognition of symptoms and appropriate treatment are key to a successful recovery.
What is Frozen Shoulder?
The shoulder joint is a ball-and-socket joint made up of three bones: the humerus (upper arm bone), scapula (shoulder blade), and clavicle (collarbone). Surrounding the joint is a capsule of connective tissue that keeps everything in place. In frozen shoulder, this capsule becomes thickened and tight, leading to the formation of scar tissue. As a result, movement becomes painful and restricted.
Frozen shoulder typically develops in three stages:
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Freezing Stage: This is the onset phase where pain gradually increases, and shoulder movement becomes limited. This stage can last from 6 weeks to 9 months.
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Frozen Stage: In this stage, the pain may reduce slightly, but the stiffness worsens. Performing daily tasks becomes more difficult. This stage may last from 4 to 12 months.
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Thawing Stage: The range of motion begins to improve gradually. Complete recovery can take anywhere from 6 months to 2 years.
Causes of Frozen Shoulder
While the exact cause of frozen shoulder is not always clear, certain factors increase the risk of developing this condition:
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Immobilization: Keeping the shoulder immobile for extended periods due to injury, surgery, or illness can lead to frozen shoulder.
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Diabetes: People with diabetes are at a higher risk. The reason is not fully understood but may be linked to changes in connective tissues.
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Thyroid disorders: Conditions like hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism can contribute to the risk.
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Shoulder injuries or surgeries: Fractures or rotator cuff injuries can lead to limited use of the shoulder, which may result in stiffness.
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Age and gender: It most commonly affects individuals between the ages of 40 and 60 and is more prevalent in women.
Common Symptoms
The symptoms of frozen shoulder develop gradually and can last for months or even years. The most common signs include:
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Persistent shoulder pain
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Stiffness in the shoulder joint
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Difficulty in lifting the arm or reaching behind the back
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Limited range of motion
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Pain that worsens at night, disrupting sleep
If you experience any of these symptoms, consulting an orthopedic specialist in Kothrud can help diagnose the condition early and start appropriate treatment.
Diagnosis
A proper diagnosis involves a physical examination where the doctor will assess the shoulder’s range of motion and pain levels. Imaging tests like X-rays or MRI may be recommended to rule out other shoulder conditions such as arthritis or rotator cuff tears.
Treatment Options
The goal of treatment is to reduce pain and restore motion. Depending on the severity of the condition, different approaches may be recommended.
1. Physical Therapy
This is the cornerstone of treatment. Stretching and strengthening exercises help restore mobility. A physiotherapist may guide specific exercises to increase shoulder flexibility gradually.
2. Medications
Over-the-counter pain relievers such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help manage pain and inflammation. In some cases, stronger prescription medications may be necessary.
3. Corticosteroid Injections
These injections can reduce inflammation and pain, especially during the early “freezing” phase. They may provide temporary relief and make physical therapy more effective.
4. Hydrodilatation
This involves injecting a large volume of sterile fluid into the shoulder joint to stretch the capsule and improve range of motion. It is often done under imaging guidance and may help in faster recovery.
5. Surgical Intervention
If conservative treatments fail, surgery may be considered. The two main surgical options are:
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Manipulation under anesthesia (MUA): The patient is put under anesthesia, and the doctor moves the shoulder to break up scar tissue.
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Arthroscopic capsular release: Minimally invasive surgery to remove the thickened capsule and scar tissue.
Post-surgical rehabilitation is crucial to maintain the improved range of motion.
Preventive Measures
Preventing frozen shoulder involves keeping the shoulder active, especially after surgery or injury. Gentle stretching and mobility exercises prescribed by a healthcare provider can help prevent stiffness. If you are diabetic or have a thyroid disorder, managing the underlying condition is also essential.
When to See a Specialist
Early diagnosis and intervention make a big difference in managing frozen shoulder effectively. If you experience unexplained shoulder stiffness or pain lasting more than a few weeks, it’s wise to consult an orthopedic specialist in Kothrud. Early treatment can reduce the duration and severity of symptoms and prevent permanent stiffness.
Frozen shoulder can be a frustrating and painful condition, but with timely diagnosis and proper management, most people recover fully. Whether it’s physical therapy, medications, or surgical intervention, individualized treatment plans can greatly improve outcomes. Dr. Vinil Shinde, an experienced orthopedic specialist in Kothrud, offers expert guidance and comprehensive care for all shoulder-related concerns, helping patients regain mobility and live pain-free lives.
