Understanding Frozen Shoulder: What It Is and How to Treat It
If you’ve ever struggled with shoulder pain and stiffness that makes even simple movements like reaching for a shelf or getting dressed a challenge, you might be dealing with frozen shoulder. But what exactly is frozen shoulder, and what can you do about it? Let’s break it down.
What Is Frozen Shoulder?
Frozen shoulder, or adhesive capsulitis, is a condition where the shoulder joint becomes painful and stiff, limiting your range of motion. It develops when the connective tissue around the shoulder joint thickens and tightens, restricting movement. This can make everyday activities, like brushing your hair or reaching for something, frustratingly difficult.
The condition often progresses in three stages:
- Freezing Stage: The shoulder becomes increasingly stiff and painful. Movement becomes harder, and the pain often worsens at night. Typically lasts from 2 to 9 months
- Frozen Stage: Stiffness persists, but the pain may lessen. However, movement remains limited. Typically lasts from 4 to 12 months.
- Thawing Stage: The shoulder gradually regains movement as stiffness decreases. Full recovery of range of motion may take 12 to 24 months.
What Causes Frozen Shoulder?
While the exact cause isn’t always clear, frozen shoulder tends to occur more often in people between the ages of 40 and 60, especially women. There is a prevalence of 2% to 5% in the general population. Certain conditions, like diabetes, thyroid disorders or a previous shoulder injury, can increase your risk. In some cases, it may develop after a period of immobility, such as after surgery or an injury.
What Are the Symptoms?
The most common symptoms of frozen shoulder include:
- Pain: A deep, aching pain in the shoulder that worsens with movement.
- Stiffness: Difficulty moving the shoulder in all directions.
- Limited Range of Motion: Everyday tasks, like reaching for your back pocket or lifting your arm, become harder.
How Is Frozen Shoulder Treated?
The good news is that frozen shoulder often improves on its own over time, though it can take months or even years to fully recover. Treatment focuses on regaining range of motion and managing symptoms. Here are some ways you can manage it:
1. Physical Therapy
Physical therapy is often the first line of treatment for frozen shoulder. A physiotherapist can guide you through gentle stretching and strengthening exercises to improve your range of motion and reduce stiffness.
2. Pain Management
Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen can help reduce pain and inflammation. In some cases, your doctor may recommend corticosteroid injections to provide temporary relief.
3. Heat and Ice Therapy
Applying heat before exercises and ice after activity can help reduce discomfort and loosen the shoulder joint.
4. Surgical Options
In severe cases, when other treatments haven’t worked, surgery might be an option to release the tight capsule around the joint. However, this is rarely needed.
What Can You Do at Home?
You can support your recovery at home by:
- Keeping the Shoulder Moving: Gentle stretches, as advised by your physiotherapist, can help maintain mobility.
- Listening to Your Body: Avoid movements that cause sharp pain, but try not to completely stop using your shoulder.
When Should You Seek Help?
If you’re experiencing persistent shoulder pain and stiffness that isn’t improving, it’s time to consult a healthcare professional. Early intervention can make a big difference in your recovery.
The Bottom Line
Frozen shoulder can be a frustrating condition, but with patience and the right treatment plan, it’s possible to regain your shoulder’s mobility. Remember, your physiotherapist is there to guide you every step of the way, ensuring you get back to moving comfortably and confidently.
If you think you might have frozen shoulder, don’t wait—take the first step towards recovery today!
Written by Tiago Oliveira in collaboration with River East Physiotherapy
Reference:
St Angelo JM, Taqi M, Fabiano SE. Adhesive Capsulitis. [Updated 2023 Aug 4]. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2024 Jan-. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK532955/