FROZEN SHOULDER 

Frozen shoulder, also known as adhesive capsulitis, is a condition characterized by stiffness, limited mobility, and pain in the shoulder joint.

Types of Frozen Shoulder:

1. Primary frozen shoulder: Idiopathic, with no known cause.

2. Secondary frozen shoulder: Resulting from underlying conditions (e.g., diabetes, thyroid disorders).

3. Post-traumatic frozen shoulder: Following injury or surgery.

Causes and Risk Factors:

1. Age (40-60 years)

2. Diabetes

3. Thyroid disorders

4. Autoimmune diseases (e.g., rheumatoid arthritis)

5. Injury or surgery

6. Inactivity or immobilization

7. Hormonal changes (e.g., menopause)

Symptoms:

1. Pain and stiffness in the shoulder and upper arm

2. Limited mobility (external rotation, abduction, flexion)

3. Difficulty lifting, throwing, or reaching

4. Pain at night, disrupting sleep

5. Decreased range of motion

Stages of Frozen Shoulder:

1. Freezing stage (2-9 months): Gradual onset of pain and stiffness.

2. Frozen stage (4-12 months): Maximum stiffness and limited mobility.

3. Thawing stage (5-24 months): Gradual improvement in mobility.

How Frozen Shoulder Works:

1. Inflammation: Synovial tissue inflammation leads to scar tissue formation.

2. Adhesions: Scar tissue causes joint capsule contraction and stiffness.

3. Joint capsule contraction: Reduces joint space and mobility.

Diagnosis:

1. Medical history

2. Physical examination

3. Imaging tests (e.g., X-rays, MRI, arthrogram)

4. Range of motion assessment

Treatment Options:

Conservative:

1. Physical therapy (PT)

2. Pain management (medication, injections)

3. Home exercises and stretching

4. Heat or cold therapy

5. Acupuncture

Interventional:

1. Corticosteroid injections

2. Hyaluronic acid injections

3. Joint distension

4. Manipulation under anesthesia

Surgical:

1. Arthroscopic release

2. Open surgical release

3. Shoulder arthroplasty (replacement)

Prevention and Management:

1. Regular exercise and stretching

2. Maintain shoulder mobility

3. Avoid prolonged immobility

4. Manage underlying conditions (e.g., diabetes)

5. Early intervention for injuries or surgery

When to Seek Medical Attention:

1. Sudden, severe shoulder pain

2. Limited mobility or stiffness

3. Difficulty performing daily activities

4. Pain at night

5. Recent trauma or surgery

Consult an orthopedic specialist or primary care physician for proper diagnosis and treatment. They will help you develop a personalized plan to manage and alleviate frozen shoulder symptoms.

Spine Connection:

Frozen shoulder can be related to spinal conditions, such as:

1. Cervical spondylosis

2. Thoracic outlet syndrome

3. Spinal stenosis

4. Herniated discs

Addressing underlying spinal issues can help alleviate frozen shoulder symptoms.