Treatment For

Frozen Shoulder

Frozen shoulder, also known as adhesive capsulitis, is a condition characterized by stiffness and pain in the shoulder joint. It typically develops gradually, worsens over time, and then resolves, usually within one to three years. The causes of frozen shoulder are not fully understood, but it is thought to occur when the capsule surrounding the shoulder joint becomes thick and tight, making it difficult to move.

Causes of Frozen Shoulder

Immobilization: Following an injury or surgery, prolonged immobility of the shoulder joint can lead to the development of a frozen shoulder. The lack of movement allows the capsule around the shoulder joint to thicken and tighten, restricting motion.
Diabetes: People with diabetes are at a higher risk of developing a frozen shoulder. The reasons are not entirely clear, but it is believed that high blood sugar levels may lead to changes in the connective tissues, making them more susceptible to inflammation and adhesions.
Age and Gender: Frozen shoulder most commonly affects individuals between the ages of 40 and 60, and it is more prevalent in women than in men. The reasons for these demographic preferences are not fully understood but may relate to hormonal changes and differential rates of degenerative diseases.
Other Health Conditions: Certain conditions such as thyroid disorders, Parkinson’s disease, and heart disease can increase the risk of developing a frozen shoulder. These conditions might contribute to systemic inflammation or affect the body’s healing process, leading to stiffness and pain in the shoulder.
Injury or Surgery: An injury to the shoulder or surgery can lead to a frozen shoulder, especially if the recovery process involves a period of immobility. The healing tissues can form adhesions that restrict movement and lead to pain and stiffness.

PhysioAdviserIndia’s help with Frozen Shoulder

PhysioAdviserIndia provides an integrated approach to managing frozen shoulder, emphasizing the importance of physiotherapy in the recovery process. Their physiotherapists are skilled in a variety of therapeutic techniques, including chiropractic adjustments and deep tissue release, tailored to each individual’s condition. Chiropractic therapy helps in aligning the body’s musculoskeletal structure, promoting healing and improving function, while deep tissue release targets the deeper layers of muscle and connective tissues to break down adhesions, enhancing flexibility and movement. This holistic approach ensures patients receive comprehensive care that addresses the root causes of their symptoms, facilitating a faster and more effective recovery.

Questions

What are the symptoms of frozen shoulder?

The symptoms of frozen shoulder primarily include persistent pain and a marked decrease in the range of motion of the shoulder joint. This condition typically progresses through three stages: the “freezing” stage, where pain increases and movement begins to become limited; the “frozen” stage, characterized by a reduction in pain but a significant limitation in motion; and the “thawing” stage, during which the range of motion gradually returns. These symptoms collectively contribute to difficulty in performing daily activities, such as dressing or reaching overhead.

How is frozen shoulder treated?

The treatment of frozen shoulder aims to control pain and restore motion through a combination of medical and physical therapy strategies. Initially, managing pain and inflammation is crucial, often through medications and ice. Physical therapy plays a pivotal role, focusing on exercises that stretch the joint capsule and improve range of motion. Corticosteroid injections may be considered to reduce severe inflammation. For cases resistant to conservative treatment, surgical options, such as joint distension or arthroscopy, may be explored to break up the adhesions and scar tissue limiting movement.