Frozen shoulder, medically referred to as adhesive capsulitis, is a condition that impacts the shoulder joint, resulting in discomfort, rigidity, and limited range of motion. The onset of this condition is gradual and can affect one’s daily activities.
In Singapore, many individuals suffer from this condition, limiting their mobility and lowering their quality of life. Thankfully, this condition is easily addressed in the city-state.
Examine what a frozen shoulder is and learn the symptoms to be aware of, allowing you to handle and manage this condition.
What Is a Frozen Shoulder?
Frozen shoulder is a condition where the shoulder joint’s connective tissues become inflamed and stiff, leading to restricted movement. This condition occurs when the shoulder capsule—the connective tissue surrounding the joint—thickens and tightens around the joint, causing scar tissue to form. As a result, the shoulder becomes stiff and painful, especially when attempting to move it. This condition can develop due to prolonged immobility following surgery or injury or without a clear cause.
The condition progresses through three stages: freezing, frozen, and thawing. During the freezing stage, shoulder movement becomes painful, and the range of motion decreases. The frozen stage is characterised by reduced pain but a noticeable limitation in shoulder movement. In the thawing stage, the shoulder gradually returns to its normal range of motion, though this can take months to years to complete.
Frozen Shoulder Symptoms
Recognising the symptoms of this condition is essential for intervention and treatment. Here are some frozen shoulder symptoms to look out for:
- Pain in the shoulder: This pain is typically dull and aching and can worsen with movement. It may also affect sleep, particularly when lying on the affected shoulder.
- Stiffness: Shoulder stiffness rises over time, making simple tasks like reaching for objects difficult.
- Limited range of motion: You may find it challenging to move your shoulder in all directions, such as raising your arm above your head or behind your back.
- Difficulty with daily activities: Tasks like dressing, grooming, or lifting objects become challenging as the condition progresses.
Frozen shoulder symptoms usually worsen over time and can last several months or even years without treatment. If you experience any of these symptoms, seeking early intervention from a shoulder specialist is essential.
Causes and Risk Factors
The exact cause of a frozen shoulder is unclear, but several factors can boost the risk of developing the condition. Common causes and risk factors include:
- Injury or surgery: The risk of a frozen shoulder heightens after an injury or surgery, particularly when the shoulder is immobilised for extended periods.
- Diabetes: People with diabetes are likely to develop frozen shoulders, although the reason for this is not well understood.
- Age and gender: Frozen shoulder is typical in individuals aged 40 to 60. It also tends to affect women than men.
- Other medical conditions: Certain medical conditions such as heart disease, thyroid disorders, and Parkinson’s disease are associated with an elevated risk of frozen shoulder.
Diagnosing Frozen Shoulder
Consulting a shoulder specialist in Singapore is essential for a diagnosis and treatment plan, particularly if you are already experiencing frozen shoulder symptoms. The specialist will begin with a physical examination, assessing your range of motion and identifying areas of pain and stiffness. Imaging tests such as X-rays or MRIs may also be used to rule out other conditions, such as arthritis.
Treatment Options for Frozen Shoulder
Once diagnosed, a shoulder specialist will recommend various treatment options depending on the severity of the condition. Here are common approaches:
- Physical therapy: This is often the first line of treatment. A physical therapist will guide you through exercises to restore movement and reduce stiffness.
- Medications: Over-the-counter pain relievers such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen may help manage pain and inflammation.
- Corticosteroid injections: Your shoulder specialist may also recommend corticosteroid injections to reduce inflammation and alleviate pain.
- Shoulder manipulation: If physical therapy and medications are not working, the specialist may perform shoulder manipulation under anaesthesia to loosen the joint capsule.
- Surgery: In severe cases where other treatments do not provide relief, surgery may be necessary to remove scar tissue and adhesions, enhancing shoulder mobility.
Preventing Frozen Shoulder
While not all cases of frozen shoulder are preventable, there are steps you can take to reduce your risk, particularly after surgery or injury. These include:
- Keeping the shoulder moving: Regularly exercising and gently moving the shoulder can help maintain mobility.
- Following post-surgery rehabilitation programs: Following your physical therapy plan is necessary to prevent stiffness after surgery or injury.
- Managing chronic conditions: If you have diabetes or other conditions that raise your risk of a frozen shoulder, work with your healthcare provider to manage these conditions accordingly.
Conclusion
Frozen shoulders can surely impact daily life. However, managing its symptoms and regaining mobility is possible with early diagnosis and appropriate treatment. Seeking the aid of a shoulder specialist for professional guidance and treatment alternatives is essential if you are facing frozen shoulder symptoms or are believed to be affected by this condition. A specialist will develop a customised treatment plan that addresses your requirements, giving you chances for a favourable recovery.
Visit Dr. Bryan Tan today to regain your shoulder’s full function.
