Frozen shoulder, also known as adhesive capsulitis, is a condition in which the shoulder joint becomes stiff and painful. It is a common condition that affects people of all ages, but it is more common in people over the age of 40.
The shoulder joint is a ball-and-socket joint that allows for a wide range of motion. It is made up of the humerus (upper arm bone), the scapula (shoulder blade), and the clavicle (collarbone). The joint capsule is a thin layer of tissue that surrounds the joint and helps to keep it stable.
What are the symptoms of frozen shoulder?
In frozen shoulder, the joint capsule becomes inflamed and thickened. This can restrict movement of the shoulder and cause pain. The condition typically progresses through three stages:- Freezing stage: This is the first stage and is characterized by pain and stiffness in the shoulder. The pain is usually worse at night and can make it difficult to sleep.
- Frozen stage: This is the middle stage and is characterized by severe stiffness in the shoulder. The pain may improve during this stage, but the stiffness can make it difficult to move the shoulder.
- Thawing stage: This is the final stage and is characterized by gradual improvement in the range of motion and pain. The shoulder may still be stiff, but it should be able to move more freely.
What causes frozen shoulder?
The exact cause of frozen shoulder is unknown, but it is thought to be caused by a combination of factors, including:- Injury to the shoulder
- Repetitive use of the shoulder
- Medical conditions, such as diabetes or thyroid problems
- Hormonal changes, such as those that occur during menopause
The diagnosis of frozen shoulder is made by a doctor based on your medical history, physical examination, and imaging tests, such as an X-ray or MRI.
Treatment of frozen shoulder
The treatment for frozen shoulder depends on the severity of the condition. Mild cases may be treated with rest, ice, and over-the-counter pain medication. More severe cases may require physical therapy, corticosteroid injections, or surgery.
Physical therapy can help to improve range of motion and strength in the shoulder. Corticosteroid injections can help to reduce inflammation and pain. Surgery is only used in severe cases when other treatments have not been successful.
The prognosis for frozen shoulder is usually good. Most people make a full recovery with time and treatment.
If you have any pain or stiffness in your shoulder, we encourage you to make an appointment to see the doctors at Warrandyte Road Clinic to get a diagnosis and treatment.
Dr Sara Safari
Sports and Musculoskeletal Doctor
Dr Sara Safari is an experienced sports and musculoskeletal doctor with extensive experience in helping athletes and active individuals of all ages and levels get back to the activities they love.
She has previously held roles as a sports doctor with the AFL Academy, the Sydney Swans, Melbourne City FC and Eastern Ranges Football Club. In addition to her practice at Warrandyte Road Clinic, she also consults as a sports and musculoskeletal physician at Knox Orthopaedic Group and assists in orthopaedic surgeries on a regular basis at various hospitals around Melbourne. She is experienced at room ultrasound for rapid diagnosis and is an expert in the field of platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy for treatment of musculoskeletal conditions.
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