Frozen Shoulder
Frozen shoulder, also known as adhesive capsulitis, is a condition characterized by stiffness, pain, and limited range of motion in the shoulder joint. It typically develops gradually over time and can last for several months to years. The exact cause of frozen shoulder is not always clear, but it is believed to involve inflammation and thickening of the capsule surrounding the shoulder joint, which restricts movement.
There are three stages of frozen shoulder:
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Freezing stage: This initial stage involves increasing pain and stiffness in the shoulder joint, which worsens over time. Shoulder movement becomes limited, and activities that involve reaching or lifting may become difficult.
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Frozen stage: During this stage, shoulder stiffness may persist, but pain may begin to decrease. However, the range of motion remains significantly restricted.
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Thawing stage: In the final stage, shoulder movement gradually improves, and range of motion begins to return. This stage can last several months to years, and full recovery may not be achieved for some individuals.
Treatment for frozen shoulder typically involves a combination of conservative measures such as physical therapy, stretching exercises, anti-inflammatory medications, and corticosteroid injections to reduce pain and improve range of motion. In some cases, more aggressive interventions such as manipulation under anesthesia or shoulder arthroscopy may be recommended if conservative treatments are ineffective.
Category:Orthopaedic
