Have you ever tried to lift your arm, only to find that your shoulder will not budge? Or maybe you have felt a dull ache that simply will not go away? You might have a frozen shoulder, a condition that affects thousands of people each year.
Frozen shoulders might sound mysterious, but they are more common than you think and understanding them can help you take control of your joint health. Let us explore what a frozen shoulder is, why it happens, and how it can be managed effectively.
What Is a Frozen Shoulder
Frozen shoulder, medically known as adhesive capsulitis, is a condition where the shoulder joint becomes stiff and painful. It is like when your favorite sweater shrinks in the wash, restricting your movement. This stiffness makes it hard to move your shoulder, making everyday tasks a challenge.
The shoulder joint is a ball-and-socket joint that allows a wide range of motion. When a frozen shoulder occurs, the capsule around the joint thickens and tightens, limiting movement.
While anyone can experience a frozen shoulder, it is more common in people aged 40 to 60. It can develop after an injury or surgery, especially if the shoulder is immobilized for a long period.
Stages of a Frozen Shoulder
There are three stages of a frozen shoulder.
Freezing Stage
During the “freezing” stage, the pain gradually increases, and the range of motion decreases. This phase of a frozen shoulder can last anywhere from six weeks to nine months.
Frozen Stage
The “frozen” stage of the shoulder is characterized by a reduction in pain but persistent stiffness. This phase, lasting between four and six months, makes daily activities difficult.
Thawing Stage
The “thawing” stage marks a gradual improvement in the range of motion. The shoulder slowly regains flexibility over several months, although full recovery may take up to two years.
Symptoms to Watch Out For
Frozen shoulder joints can cause the following symptoms.
Pain in the Shoulder Area
One of the primary symptoms is pain in the shoulder area, which can be sharp or dull. This pain often worsens at night, making it difficult to sleep comfortably.
Stiffness in the Shoulder Joint
Another symptom is stiffness in the shoulder joint. You may notice a reduced range of motion, finding it hard to reach for objects or even lift your arm above your head. The stiffness might worsen over time, making it even more important to seek help early.
Difficulty with Daily Activities
Lastly, many individuals experience difficulty with daily activities due to a frozen shoulder. Simple tasks like brushing your hair or putting on a jacket can become extremely challenging.
Causes and Risk Factors
The exact cause of frozen shoulder remains a bit of a mystery, but certain factors increase the risk.
Shoulder Immobility
If you do not move your shoulder enough, it is more likely to stiffen up. Often, this immobility results from an injury or surgery.
Impact of Diabetes
Diabetes is another significant risk factor for a frozen shoulder. People with diabetes are more prone to inflammation, which can contribute to the condition.
In fact, a frozen shoulder is more common in individuals with diabetes than in those without.
Influence of Age and Gender
Age and gender also play a role in frozen shoulder development. A frozen shoulder is more prevalent in middle-aged individuals, particularly women. Hormonal changes during menopause may contribute to this increased risk.
How Is a Frozen Shoulder Diagnosed?
Diagnosing a frozen shoulder involves a combination of medical history, physical examination, and imaging tests. Your orthopedic medicine provider will ask about your symptoms and any recent injuries or surgeries.
During the physical examination, they will assess your shoulder’s range of motion and check for signs of stiffness. Imaging tests like X-rays or MRI scans may be used to rule out other conditions that could mimic frozen shoulder symptoms. These tests provide a detailed view of the shoulder joint, helping confirm the diagnosis.
Treatment Options for a Frozen Shoulder
The following are the frozen shoulder treatments that an orthopedic doctor might recommend.
Pain Relief
Pain relief is a primary focus, often achieved through over-the-counter medications like ibuprofen or acetaminophen. These medications help reduce shoulder inflammation and alleviate discomfort.
Physical Therapy
Physical therapy plays a crucial role in restoring shoulder mobility in patients with a frozen shoulder. A trained therapist will guide you through exercises aimed at improving flexibility and strengthening shoulder muscles.
Corticosteroid Injections
In some cases, corticosteroid injections may be recommended to reduce inflammation and provide short-term relief from frozen shoulder symptoms. These injections target the affected area, helping alleviate pain and stiffness.
The Role of Shoulder Surgery
In certain situations, when conservative treatments do not provide relief, shoulder surgery may be considered.
Arthroscopic shoulder surgery is a minimally invasive procedure used to address a frozen shoulder. During the surgery, small incisions are made, and a tiny camera (arthroscope) is inserted into the joint. This allows the shoulder surgeon to remove scar tissue and release tight structures, improving shoulder mobility.
Shoulder surgery is typically a last resort when other frozen treatments have been unsuccessful. It is important to discuss the potential risks and benefits of frozen shoulder surgery with your orthopedic provider before making a decision.
Frozen Shoulders Treatment in North Dakota
A frozen shoulder may be a puzzling condition, but understanding its causes, symptoms, and treatment options empowers you to take control of your joint health.
If you suspect you have a frozen shoulder or are experiencing shoulder discomfort, reach out to our qualified orthopedic specialist for guidance here at The Bone & Joint Center. Our team of experienced orthopedic specialists is dedicated to providing exceptional care for all your orthopedic needs, including a frozen shoulder.
For more information or to schedule a consultation, call us today at (800) 424-2663 or use our appointment request form. We look forward to serving you!
