Frozen shoulder, commonly referred to as adhesive capsulitis, is a painful condition characterized by limited movement in the shoulder. It occurs when the shoulder’s connective tissue, known as the joint capsule, becomes thickened, stiff, and inflamed. The joint capsule holds the ball-and-socket joint together, connecting the upper arm bone (humeral head) to the shoulder socket (glenoid). The condition is termed “frozen” because as the pain increases, people tend to use the shoulder less, leading to further stiffness and reduced mobility.
What are the Stages of a Frozen Shoulder?
Frozen shoulder develops gradually and typically progresses through three stages:
- Freezing Stage: Any movement of the shoulder results in pain, and mobility is restricted. This stage may last from 2 to 9 months.
- Frozen Stage: Pain may lessen, but the shoulder becomes stiffer, making it more challenging to move. This stage lasts 4 to 12 months.
- Thawing Stage: During this stage shoulder mobility improves slowly. This stage can take anywhere from 5 to 24 months.
Who is most at risk for a frozen shoulder?
- Certain factors increase the risk of developing a frozen shoulder. Women between the ages of 40 and 60 are more likely to experience the condition, particularly after periods of shoulder immobility due to surgery or a medical condition like a stroke.
- Individuals with underlying conditions like heart disease, diabetes, thyroid disorders, or Parkinson’s disease also have an increased risk of developing a frozen shoulder.
What Are the Key Treatment Options for Frozen Shoulder?
The primary focus of treating a frozen shoulder is pain relief and restoring mobility. Treatment options may include:
- Anti-inflammatory medications
- Applying ice packs to the shoulder for pain relief
- Corticosteroid injections to reduce inflammation
- Physical therapy as it focuses on stretching and strengthening the shoulder.
What Are The Best Exercises For Frozen Shoulder?
Below are some recommended exercises to improve mobility:
- Pendulum Stretch: Swing your affected arm in a small circle, increasing the size of the circles as your mobility improves.
- Cross-Body Reach: Use your unaffected arm to gently lift your frozen arm across your chest, holding the stretch for 15 to 20 seconds.
- Towel Stretch: Grasp a towel behind your back with both hands and slowly pull it upward using your unaffected arm.
- Outward Rotation: Use a rubber exercise band to stretch the affected arm outward while keeping your upper arm close to your side.
- Inward Rotation: Loop an exercise band around a doorknob and pull it inward with your affected arm.
Frozen shoulder is a manageable condition, but it requires time and dedication to overcome. Early intervention and physical therapy can significantly improve your chances of recovery. If you are experiencing any of the frozen shoulder symptoms don’t wait – Consult a healthcare professional
At Maruthi Nursing Home, we provide personalized treatment plans for managing frozen shoulder. Our experienced team of healthcare professionals is here to help you regain mobility and live pain-free. Consult today for appropriate for effective management of your condition.
