Frozen Shoulder : Understanding the Condition and its Treatment Options

Frozen Shoulder : Understanding the Condition and its Treatment Options

by Dr. Sudhir Kumar

Posted on 27th March, 2023 at 2:13:32 AM


Frozen shoulder, also known as adhesive capsulitis, is a condition characterized by pain and stiffness in the shoulder joint. It can make even the simplest of movements, such as reaching for an object or brushing your hair, extremely difficult and painful. If you are experiencing pain and limited mobility in your shoulders, you may be wondering if you have frozen shoulders and what you can do about it. In this blog, we will discuss the causes, symptoms, and treatment options for a frozen shoulder.

What is a frozen shoulder and how does it occur?

Frozen shoulders occur when the connective tissue surrounding the shoulder joint, known as the capsule, becomes inflamed and thickens. This thickening and inflammation cause the capsule to contract and limit the movement of the joint. As a result, the shoulder becomes stiff, and painful, and has limited mobility.

Why does a frozen shoulder happen?

The exact cause of frozen shoulder is not entirely understood, but several factors may contribute to the development of the condition. Some of these factors include:

  • Age: Froze shoulder is more common in people between the ages of 40 and 60.
  • Previous injury: Shoulder injuries can increase the risk of developing a frozen shoulder.
  • Medical conditions: Certain medical conditions, such as diabetes, hypothyroidism, and Parkinson’s disease, have been linked to an increased risk of a frozen shoulder.
  • Surgery: Shoulder surgery can increase the risk of developing a frozen shoulder, especially if the arm is immobilized for an extended period.

Will a frozen shoulder go away on its own?

In some cases, a frozen shoulder can improve on its own, but the process can take several months to a year. However, for many people, the condition does not improve without treatment. If you are experiencing pain and limited mobility in your shoulder, it is important to seek medical attention.

What are the remedies for frozen shoulder?

Treatment for a frozen shoulder will depend on the severity of your symptoms and the underlying cause of the condition. Some common treatment options include:

Physical therapy: Physical therapy can help to improve mobility and reduce pain in the shoulder. Your physical therapist may recommend exercises and stretches to help improve the range of motion and strengthen the muscles surrounding the shoulder joint.

Pain medication: Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, can help to relieve pain and reduce inflammation.

Steroid injections: Corticosteroid injections can be used to reduce pain and inflammation in the shoulder.

Surgery: In severe cases, surgery may be necessary to release the contracted capsule and restore movement in the shoulder joint.

Where does a frozen shoulder hurt?

A frozen shoulder typically causes pain in the should and arm, as well as a limited range of motion. The pain may be a dull ache that worsens with movement or a sharp pain that occurs when attempting to move the shoulder. Some people may also experience pain in the upper arm, elbow, and neck.

In conclusion, frozen shoulders are a painful and debilitating condition that can impact your daily life. If you are experiencing pain and limited mobility in your shoulder, it is important to seek medical attention to determine the best course of treatment. With the right combination of physical therapy, pain medication, and other treatments, it is possible to manage the symptoms of frozen shoulders and improve your quality of life.

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