Frozen Shoulder
- Frozen shoulder, also known as adhesive capsulitis, is a painful condition characterized by stiffness and limited range of motion in the shoulder joint.
- It typically develops gradually and progresses through three stages: freezing, frozen, and thawing.
- The exact cause is often unknown, but risk factors include age, gender (more common in women), diabetes, shoulder injury or surgery, and prolonged immobilization.
- Symptoms include pain, stiffness, and difficulty moving the shoulder, especially when reaching overhead or behind the back.
- Diagnosis involves medical history, physical examination, and imaging tests like X-rays or MRI to rule out other conditions.
- Treatment aims to alleviate pain, restore shoulder mobility, and prevent recurrence.
- Conservative treatments include rest, physical therapy, stretching exercises, and pain management medications.
- Heat therapy, cold packs, and ultrasound may help relieve pain and improve flexibility.
- Injections of corticosteroids or numbing medications into the shoulder joint can provide temporary pain relief.
- Manipulation under anesthesia or arthroscopic surgery may be considered in severe cases that do not respond to conservative measures.
- Rehabilitation is crucial to regain shoulder mobility and strength gradually.
- Recovery time varies, but most cases improve over several months to a year.
- Regular follow-up with healthcare providers is important to monitor progress and adjust treatment as needed.
- Prevention strategies include maintaining shoulder mobility through regular exercise, avoiding prolonged immobilization, and managing underlying medical conditions.
- While frozen shoulder can be frustrating, proactive management can help individuals regain function and minimize long-term disability.
