Frozen shoulder, also known as adhesive capsulitis, can become a nagging injury that involves stiffness and pain. Let’s take a look at some causes and symptoms of this condition.
What is Frozen Shoulder?
Frozen shoulder occurs when the tissue holding the joint together, called the shoulder capsule, thickens and tightens up making it difficult to move.
Symptoms of frozen shoulder include:
- Pain
- Stiffness
- Decrease in movement
With this condition, there are generally three stages a patient will go through. The symptoms may gradually get worse before they go away, but this can take several years before that happens.
Stage 1 — Freezing
When the freezing stage happens, more pain will occur, especially overnight, and your range of motion will begin to deteriorate. This stage can last 6-9 months.
Stage 2 — Frozen
At this point, pain may not be as intense, but stiffness will continue to get worse. General shoulder movement is very difficult and can affect day to day activity. This stage can last 4-12 months.
Stage 3 — Thawing
Your range of motion begins to improve and strength gets back to normal. This can happen anywhere from 6 months to 2-3 years.
Causes and Treatments
While it’s not entirely clear why some people develop frozen shoulder, there are groups that are more “at-risk” for the condition.
- Affects more women than men
- If you’re between 40-60
- If you have diabetes, heart disease, or thyroid problems
Treatment Options
- Steroid injections — A corticosteroid injection in your shoulder can help reduce pain and stiffness.
- Physical therapy — Certain exercises can be done to help improve range of motion. While some stretches can be done at home, it’s always a good idea to get initial advice from your doctor.
- Joint distention — Sterile water is injected into the shoulder capsule to stretch it and bring back range of motion.
- Surgery — While surgery isn’t common with frozen shoulder, it can still be done if all other options are exhausted.
Frozen shoulder is a nagging condition that causes pain and stiffness. Call Hampton Roads Orthopaedics Spine and Sports Medicine at 757-873-1554 to schedule your appointment and learn about your treatment options today!
