Introduction:

Adhesive capsulitis, commonly known as frozen shoulder, is a painful and restrictive condition that affects the shoulder joint. This article delves into the causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and potential treatments for shoulder pain associated with adhesive capsulitis.

Understanding Frozen Shoulder:

Adhesive capsulitis is characterized by the inflammation and thickening of the capsule surrounding the shoulder joint. This leads to the development of adhesions, which limit the joint's movement. While the exact cause remains unclear, certain factors can increase the risk of developing frozen shoulder, including diabetes, previous shoulder injuries, and prolonged immobility.

Symptoms:

The primary symptom of adhesive capsulitis is shoulder pain and stiffness, which typically progresses through stages:

• Freezing Stage: Pain gradually increases, and the shoulder's range of motion diminishes. This stage can last from 6 weeks to 9 months.
• Frozen Stage: Pain may begin to subside, but the shoulder remains stiff and movement is severely restricted. This stage can last from 4 to 6 months.
• Thawing Stage: Shoulder mobility slowly improves over a period of 6 months to 2 years. Pain continues to decrease.

Diagnosis:

To diagnose adhesive capsulitis, a healthcare provider will:

• Review the patient's medical history and symptoms.
• Perform a physical examination to assess shoulder mobility and rule out other potential causes of pain.
• Sometimes, imaging tests like X-rays or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) may be ordered to rule out other issues and evaluate the extent of the condition.

Treatment:

• Physical Therapy: A physical therapist can provide exercises and techniques to improve shoulder mobility and reduce pain.
• Medications: Over-the-counter pain relievers or prescribed anti-inflammatory drugs can help manage pain and inflammation.
• Heat and Ice: Applying heat or cold packs to the shoulder can provide relief from pain and stiffness.
• Corticosteroid Injections: In some cases, corticosteroid injections directly into the shoulder joint may help reduce inflammation and pain.
• Home Exercises: A healthcare provider or physical therapist can recommend specific exercises for patients to perform at home to maintain shoulder mobility.
• Hydrodilatation: This procedure involves injecting sterile water into the joint capsule to stretch it and improve mobility.
• Manipulation Under Anesthesia (MUA): In rare cases, a healthcare provider may perform MUA to break up adhesions by manipulating the shoulder joint under anesthesia.

Conclusion:

Frozen shoulder is a painful condition characterized by shoulder pain, stiffness, and limited range of motion. It can significantly impact daily life and activities. Early diagnosis and appropriate treatment, which may include physical therapy, medications, or minimally invasive procedures, can help alleviate pain and restore shoulder function.

Hashtags: #FrozenShoulder #AdhesiveCapsulitis #ShoulderPain #Orthopedics

Meta-description: Learn about the causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatments for shoulder pain associated with adhesive capsulitis, commonly known as frozen shoulder, a condition that limits shoulder mobility and causes significant discomfort.

Keywords: Frozen shoulder, adhesive capsulitis, shoulder pain, symptoms, diagnosis, treatment