“Frozen Shoulder (Adhesive Capsulitis): Signs, Causes, and Recovery Tips”

What Is a Frozen Shoulder?

Frozen shoulder, also called adhesive capsulitis, is a condition that makes your shoulder stiff and painful. In this condition, the shoulder joint becomes hard to move. Usually, the pain and stiffness get worse over time. However, with the right care, most people recover. Frozen shoulder is common in people aged 40 to 60. It can affect one or both shoulders, but it usually starts in just one.

Common Symptoms of Frozen Shoulder

Frozen shoulder symptoms often develop slowly. At first, you may notice mild pain. Over time, the pain can get worse, and moving your arm becomes harder. For example, you might struggle to lift your arm or reach behind your back. The main symptoms include:

Shoulder pain, especially at night

Stiffness in the shoulder joint

Limited range of motion

Difficulty doing daily tasks, like dressing

Sometimes, the pain may improve, but the stiffness can last longer. Because of this, daily life can feel challenging.

Causes and Risk Factors

Doctors are not always sure what causes frozen shoulder. However, it often happens after an injury or surgery that keeps your arm still for a long time. In addition, certain health problems can raise your risk. These include:

Diabetes

Thyroid problems

Heart disease

Stroke

Shoulder injuries or surgery

Women are more likely to get frozen shoulder than men. Also, people over 40 have a higher risk. Because of these factors, it is important to keep your shoulder moving when possible.

How Is Frozen Shoulder Diagnosed?

To diagnose frozen shoulder, your doctor will ask about your symptoms and check your shoulder. They may ask you to move your arm in different ways. This helps show how much movement you have lost. Sometimes, doctors use X-rays or MRI scans. These tests rule out other problems, like arthritis or a torn muscle. However, most of the time, a physical exam is enough for diagnosis.

Treatment Options for Frozen Shoulder

Treatment for frozen shoulder focuses on easing pain and improving movement. Early care can help you recover faster. Common frozen shoulder treatments include:

Physiotherapy: Gentle exercises stretch and strengthen the shoulder. Over time, this can help restore movement.

Pain relief: Medicines like acetaminophen or ibuprofen can reduce pain and swelling.

Heat or cold packs: These can help ease pain and relax the muscles.

Injections: Sometimes, doctors use steroid shots to lower swelling in the joint.

Surgery: Rarely, surgery may be needed if other treatments do not help.

Most people get better with physiotherapy for frozen shoulder. However, recovery can take several months. Because of this, patience and regular exercise are important.

Tips for Prevention and Recovery

Although not all cases can be prevented, some steps may lower your risk. For example, if you have had a shoulder injury or surgery, try to keep your shoulder moving as much as your doctor allows. Here are some helpful tips:

Start gentle shoulder exercises early after injury or surgery

Follow your physiotherapist’s advice closely

Apply heat before exercise to relax the joint

Use ice after exercise to reduce swelling

Stay active and avoid keeping your arm still for long periods

With regular care, you can improve your chances of a full recovery. In addition, staying positive and patient helps during the healing process.

When to See a Physiotherapist

If you notice shoulder pain or stiffness that does not improve, it is time to seek help. Early treatment can prevent the problem from getting worse. You should see a physiotherapist if:

Pain lasts more than a few weeks

You cannot move your arm as before

Daily tasks become hard due to shoulder pain

Physiotherapists are experts in frozen shoulder treatment. They can guide you with safe exercises and advice on how to recover from frozen shoulder.

For the best results, consult a physiotherapist or healthcare provider for personalized advice on managing frozen shoulder.