A persistent ache or stiffness in the shoulder can sometimes signal more than just everyday stress, as it could be a sign of frozen shoulder, a condition that limits the arm’s movement and causes persistent discomfort. Frozen shoulder typically affects adults between the 40 and 60 years of age, and can make even routine tasks, such as dressing or reaching for something, a challenge. In this article, we will cover the signs and symptoms of frozen shoulder, exploring its causes and risk factors, and treatment options to help restore mobility and relieve the pain. But first, let’s cover some basics.
What is a Frozen Shoulder?
Frozen shoulder, medically known as “Adhesive Capsulitis”, is a condition where the shoulder joint becomes stiff, painful, and difficult to move. This happens when the tissue surrounding the shoulder joint, known as the capsule, thickens and tightens over time, causing it to freeze. As the capsule becomes more rigid, it forms bands of scar tissue that make movement even harder. This condition often develops after a period of limited movement, like after an injury or surgery, or due to health issues like diabetes, leading to ongoing shoulder pain and stiffness that can last months or even years.
What are the signs and symptoms of Frozen Shoulder?
Recognising the signs and symptoms of a frozen shoulder is crucial for early intervention and relief. Here are some common signs and symptoms related to frozen shoulder:
Pain
Initial pain is usually felt in the shoulder, often radiating down the arm. This pain may worsen with movement and can be particularly intense at night.
Stiffness
The shoulder becomes increasingly stiff, making it difficult to move. This stiffness can lead to a limited range of motion in the shoulder.
Limited Range of Motion
Patients may find it challenging to perform everyday activities, such as reaching overhead, lifting objects, or dressing. The range of motion may decrease gradually over time.
Stages of Progression
- Freezing Stage: This phase can last for several months and is marked by a gradual increase in pain and a significant decrease in shoulder mobility.
- Frozen Stage: The pain may decrease during this phase, but the stiffness remains severe, and the shoulder’s range of motion is very limited.
- Thawing Stage: This stage involves gradual improvement in shoulder movement, which can last from several months to a few years.
Symptoms at Night
Many people experience heightened pain at night, which can disrupt sleep and may lead to fatigue.
What are the Causes of Frozen Shoulder?
The main cause of frozen shoulder, or adhesive capsulitis, is the thickening and tightening of the shoulder joint’s capsule, which is the tissue surrounding the joint. This can happen for several reasons:
- Injury or Surgery: Sometimes, an injury or surgery to the shoulder can lead to reduced movement, causing the shoulder to become stiff over time.
- Medical Conditions: Certain health issues, like diabetes, thyroid problems, or heart disease, can increase the risk of developing frozen shoulders.
- Immobilisation: If you’ve had to keep your shoulder still for a long period—due to injury or illness—it can lead to stiffness.
- Age and Gender: Frozen shoulder is more common in people aged 40 to 60, and women are more likely to experience it than men.
In simple terms, anything that limits shoulder movement can trigger frozen shoulder, leading to pain and stiffness that can take time to resolve.
How to Manage Frozen Shoulder Pain?
Managing frozen shoulder pain involves a combination of treatments and strategies aimed at reducing discomfort and restoring mobility. Here are some effective approaches:
- Physical Therapy: A physical therapist can guide you through specific exercises to improve flexibility and strength in the shoulder. Stretching and range-of-motion exercises are particularly beneficial.
- Pain Relief Medications: Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, can help reduce pain and inflammation. In some cases, your doctor may prescribe stronger medications.
- Heat and Cold Therapy: Applying heat to the shoulder can help relax the muscles and improve blood flow, while cold packs can reduce swelling and numb sharp pain. Alternating between heat and cold can be effective.
- Corticosteroid Injections: In some cases, a doctor may recommend corticosteroid injections to reduce inflammation and alleviate pain in the shoulder joint.
- Avoiding Certain Movements: While it’s important to keep the shoulder moving, avoid movements that cause severe pain, as this can lead to further irritation.
- Assistive Devices: Using aids like a shoulder sling or brace can help support the shoulder and reduce strain during daily activities.
- Surgical Options: If conservative treatments don’t provide relief, your doctor may recommend surgery to release the tight tissue around the shoulder joint.
- Patience and Consistency: Recovery from a frozen shoulder can take time. Consistently following your treatment plan and being patient with the process is crucial for improvement.
How can Frozen Shoulder be Prevented?
Preventing frozen shoulder involves taking proactive steps to maintain shoulder mobility and overall joint health. Here are some effective strategies:
- Stay Active: Regular physical activity helps keep your joints flexible. Engage in exercises that involve shoulder movement, like stretching and strengthening routines.
- Manage Injuries Promptly: If you experience a shoulder injury, seek treatment right away. Early intervention through physical therapy can help prevent stiffness from developing.
- Follow Rehabilitation Guidelines: After surgery or injury, adhere to your doctor’s rehabilitation plan to regain full shoulder movement and strength.
- Control Chronic Conditions: Effectively manage chronic health issues, such as diabetes or thyroid disorders, as they can increase the risk of developing a frozen shoulder.
- Incorporate Stretching: Regularly perform gentle stretching exercises for your shoulders. This can help maintain flexibility and prevent stiffness.
- Avoid Prolonged Immobility: If your shoulder needs to be immobilised due to an injury, gradually reintroduce movement as recommended by your doctor.
- Stay Hydrated: Drinking enough water is essential for joint health and can help reduce stiffness.
When to See a Doctor for Frozen Shoulder?
You should see a doctor for a frozen shoulder if you experience any of the following:
- Persistent Pain: If the pain lasts more than a few weeks and doesn’t improve with home treatments like rest, ice, or over-the-counter pain relievers.
- Significant Loss of Motion: If you notice a noticeable decrease in your shoulder’s range of motion, making it difficult to perform everyday activities such as reaching, lifting, or dressing.
- Worsening Symptoms: If your symptoms worsen over time, leading to increased pain or stiffness rather than improvement.
- Difficulty Sleeping: If shoulder pain interferes with your ability to sleep, resulting in fatigue or impacting your daily life.
- Underlying Health Issues: If you have conditions like diabetes or thyroid disorders and experience shoulder pain or stiffness, it’s important to consult a doctor.
- Treatment is Ineffective: If you’ve tried home remedies and physical therapy without relief, it’s time to seek professional help.
Early intervention can lead to better outcomes, so don’t hesitate to consult a doctor if you have concerns about your shoulder health.
Conclusion
A frozen shoulder can significantly impact your daily life, but understanding its signs, symptoms, and management options is the first step toward recovery. If you’re experiencing persistent pain or limited mobility in your shoulder, don’t hesitate to seek professional help. At Graphic Era Hospital, our team of specialists is dedicated to providing comprehensive care tailored to your needs. From advanced diagnostic techniques to personalised treatment plans, we are here to support you on your journey to recovery. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and take the first step towards regaining your shoulder’s strength and flexibility.
