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Understanding Frozen Shoulder: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

Category: Orthopedics

Published DateMon Dec 16 2024
By Dr. Suhail Shaikh

Frozen shoulder, medically known as adhesive capsulitis, is a condition that can significantly impact your daily life. Characterized by stiffness and pain in the shoulder joint, it can restrict your ability to perform basic movements. In this blog, Dr. Suhail Shaikh, an orthopedic surgeon and sports injury specialist at Lokmanya Hospital in Pune, sheds light on the condition, its causes, symptoms, and available treatment options.

What Is A Frozen Shoulder?

Frozen shoulder occurs when the shoulder capsule thickens and tightens, restricting movement. Individuals often report that they struggle to raise their arms or rotate their shoulders, leading to frustration and discomfort. This condition can arise gradually, making it crucial to recognize the signs early for effective management.

Symptoms Of Frozen Shoulder
The primary symptoms of frozen shoulder include:
  • Stiffness: Difficulty in moving the shoulder, particularly in raising or rotating the arm.
  • Pain: Discomfort in the shoulder that may extend to the upper arm.
  • Limited Range of Motion: Inability to perform normal activities that require shoulder movement.
If you find yourself experiencing these symptoms, it may be time to seek medical advice.

Causes Of Frozen Shoulder
Several factors can contribute to the development of frozen shoulder, including:
  1. Immobilization: If you’ve suffered a shoulder fracture or undergone surgery that requires prolonged immobilization in a sling, you may be at risk of developing a frozen shoulder. The lack of movement can lead to thickening of the shoulder capsule.
  2. Uncontrolled Diabetes: People with diabetes, especially those who have difficulty managing their blood sugar levels, are more susceptible to this condition. High blood sugar can cause changes in the shoulder capsule, leading to stiffness.
  3. Thyroid Issues: Both hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism can play a role in the development of frozen shoulders. Hormonal imbalances can affect the tissues and contribute to stiffness in the shoulder joint.
  4. Idiopathic Cases: In some instances, individuals may develop frozen shoulders without any identifiable risk factors or prior symptoms.
Treatment Options

If you or someone you know is dealing with frozen shoulder, there are several approaches to consider:
  1. Management of Underlying Conditions: Controlling diabetes and managing thyroid issues are critical first steps in treatment.
  2. Physiotherapy: Engaging in physiotherapy is essential. A physical therapist can provide specific exercises designed to improve flexibility and restore movement in the shoulder.
  3. Steroid Injections: In some cases, corticosteroid injections may be administered to reduce inflammation and alleviate pain, allowing for more effective participation in physical therapy.
  4. Surgical Intervention: If conservative treatments do not yield sufficient improvement, arthroscopic surgery may be considered to release the tight shoulder capsule. This option is typically reserved for more severe cases.
Conclusion

Frozen shoulder can be a challenging condition that impacts daily life, making it important to recognize early symptoms for timely intervention. Understanding the causes and seeking appropriate treatment can make a significant difference in recovery and long-term shoulder health. If you suspect you have a frozen shoulder, consulting a healthcare professional is the first step toward regaining mobility and comfort. At Lokmanya Hospital we are here to guide you through diagnosis and treatment to ensure the best possible outcome.