What is Frozen Shoulder?

In your attempt to diagnose the stiffness and ache in your shoulder, you may ask yourself, “What is frozen shoulder?”

Frozen shoulder (which is also called adhesive capsulitis) will cause a person to be unable to move the shoulder. This usually is only on one side, but one in five people will have it affect the other shoulder as well. When you look at the medical term for frozen shoulder (adhesive capsulitis), it actually describes the condition perfectly…

The shoulder becomes inflamed and it becomes stuck. The joint becomes stiff and movement is difficult. It is usually only seen in persons 40-70 years of age and more often in women. It is believed that women are more prone due to hormonal changes. It seems that diabetics are more prone to this condition. Poor posture can also contribute to this condition.

The cause for frozen shoulder is not known. It can happen for no reason or as a direct result of an injury that has been immobilized for a time. The shoulder becomes inflamed and scar tissue forms which restricts movement in the capsule.

What is frozen shoulder?

• Phase one – This is the painful phase. There is a slow onset of pain the shoulder. It gradually increases, especially when lying on the affected area at night.

• Phase two – The pain does not subside and stiffness sets in. Normal daily activities become hard (such as dressing).

• Phase three – This is what is called the thawing phase. Range of movement gradually increases. The pain usually subsides.

It is usually recommended to start with physical therapy. The doctor may recommend the use of anti-inflammatories such as ibuprofen. An injection of corticosteroids may be given if the above does not decrease the pain level. Nerve blocks are also used to help with pain. Surgery is always a last resort. It is usually performed arthroscopically and is always followed by physical therapy.

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