Frozen Shoulder
What causes a frozen shoulder?
Frozen shoulder is also known as adhesive capsulitis. It is an inflammation of the shoulder joint accompanied by progressive stiffness, pain and significant restriction of range of motion. The onset of initial symptoms may be sudden and progressively worsen. The joint essentially “freezes” and becomes immobile.
What Causes this Condition?
It’s not entirely clear what causes adhesive capsulitis to occur. However, there are certain factors that appear to increase the risk of developing this condition.
- Age – Individuals between the ages of 40 and 60
- Sex – Women are more prone to the condition.
- If you have diabetes or thyroid problems
- Prior shoulder surgery or trauma to the shoulder.
How do doctors diagnose Frozen Shoulder?
The diagnosis is made by a physician, based on patient medical history, physical examination and imaging. Unfortunately, there is no specific means of testing available to provide a definitive confirmation of frozen shoulder. If your physician suspects that this is what you are experiencing , they may order imaging tests such as an x-ray, ultrasound or MRI. These images are primarily used as a means to exclude any other problems, rather than to confirm diagnosis.
Frozen Shoulder Progression
There are 3 stages of Frozen shoulder: Freezing, Frozen, Thawing
Stage one – Freezing
This initial, painful phase is generally the most painful phase of this condition. It typically lasts between two weeks to several months. The onset of pain may be sudden and will progressively worsen. The level of pain may be more noticeable at night or during movement.
The freezing stage usually lasts for a few weeks to several months. During this phase, the shoulder joint becomes increasingly stiff, and your range of motion starts to decrease. You may find it challenging to perform normal daily activities.
Stage 2 – Frozen
The hallmark of this second stage is the loss of mobility in the shoulder joint. The level of pain being experienced may hold steady or even decrease. However, the shoulder joint becomes pronouncedly more stiff and movement becomes significantly limited. The shoulder may feel “frozen” in a specific position. Attempts to move it may be met with resistance and discomfort. The duration of the frozen stage varies, but is generally anywhere from several months to one year.
Stage 3 – Thawing
During the thawing phase, the joint begins to recover. There is a gradual improvement in shoulder mobility along with a reduction in pain and stiffness. This improvement occurs gradually over a period of several months to years, depending on the individual. You may notice that you can move your shoulder more freely and with less discomfort.
Can physical therapy help?
Yes! Physical therapy is standard treatment for frozen shoulder.
Medical experts refer to frozen shoulder as a “self-limiting” condition, meaning it will eventually go away on its own. However, it can take a significant amount of time to resolve without intervention. Physical therapy is a very effective means of increasing shoulder mobility and speeding up the natural healing process. Your physical therapist will provide exercises to help restore the shoulder’s range of motion, improve joint mobility for daily tasks and reduce the pain resulting from frozen shoulder.
Contact us for your physical therapy needs!
If you have been diagnosed with frozen shoulder and are seeking physical therapy options, contact us at Comprehensive Rehab. We have offices in Clinton and Maquoketa.