The condition has got its name for a reason. A strong connective tissue surrounds the shoulder joint in the body. When this tissue becomes thick, stiff, and inflamed, a person experiences pain and refrains from using the joint. The lack of use causes the joint capsule to become thick and tight and makes the shoulder difficult to move and it gets ‘frozen’ in its position. The condition is characterized by adhesions on the joint capsule and decreased synovial fluid that keeps the shoulder joint lubricated.
Causes of frozen shoulder
Experts can’t pinpoint specific reasons why frozen shoulder develops. However, certain factors are considered as high risk.
- Age- Studies indicate that frozen shoulder mostly affects people aged 40 to 60 years. This happens due to multiple reasons.
1- The natural degeneration of the muscles, ligaments, and joints leads to reduced elasticity and hydration causing them to stiffen and become less mobile.
2- Less blood supply to the tissues which delays tissue repair and healing.
3- Conditions like diabetes, heart ailments, Parkinson’s, Stroke, and thyroid diseases which are more common in people of that age group increase the risk of a frozen shoulder as they affect the collagen structure.
4- Aging brings with it reduced mobility and a sedentary lifestyle which affects the working of the joints.
- Gender- Data shows that women are more likely to suffer from a frozen shoulder as compared to men. This is why.
1- The connective tissue in women is more elastic and hence more prone to inflammation and fibrosis.
2- Women experience hormonal imbalances which leads to inflammation and stiffness in joints.
3- Women are more prone to autoimmune and endocrine conditions like hypo or hyperthyroidism, diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, and osteoporosis, which contribute to inflammation, reduced mobility, and stiffening of joints.
4- Women undergo surgeries like breast cancer that require immobilization of the shoulder leading to its stiffness.
- Injuries- Any injury that requires the immobilization of the shoulder and using a shoulder brace, sling or wrap increases the risk of a frozen shoulder.
How to treat frozen shoulder
The initial treatment usually involves pain relief methods till the pain subsides. But if the condition worsens then therapy or surgery may be in order.
These are a few simple ways
1- Hot and cold compresses are the first option. They help reduce pain and swelling.
2- If compresses don’t work then non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen and acetaminophen are given. If the pain is too severe, the doctor may prescribe steroid injections.
3- Physical therapy plays a very differential role in treating a frozen shoulder. The therapist can teach a person to do some very helpful stretches and range-of-motion exercises which provide significant relief in pain and help in recovery.
The therapist also uses a Transcutaneous electric nerve stimulation (TENS) which is a battery-operated device that blocks nerve impulses and helps reduce pain.
4- If the above-mentioned non-invasive procedures fail to provide the required relief, then the doctors recommend manipulation under anesthesia. This involves putting the person to sleep and the healthcare professional forces movement in the shoulder. However, this forced movement may cause over-stretching or tearing of the joint capsule.
Shoulder arthroscopy involves cutting through the tight parts of the joint capsule with the help of pencil-size instruments.
Frozen shoulder can be prevented. When a person has had an injury it is best to start physical therapy as soon as possible on the advice of the doctor. The orthopedic surgeon along with the physical therapist can formulate a comprehensive exercise program as per the specific requirements of the person to facilitate recovery and provide comfort.
Frozen shoulder (adhesive capsulitis) can be challenging and shouldn’t be ignored if it persists. The pain and stiffness can interfere with daily tasks and disrupt the routine. Addressing the issue on time is key and consulting experts enables quicker and complete recovery. Orthopedic rehabilitation at Sukino Healthcare plays a transformative role with highly skilled orthopedic physical therapists, or PTs aiding patients in recovering from a frozen shoulder. They work diligently to integrate all bodily systems, particularly the neurological and cardiovascular systems, with the musculoskeletal system to deliver appropriate and effective treatment for the condition. The personalized care and guidance help people reclaim their daily activities and enhance their physical and emotional well-being.
