Understanding Adhesive Capsulitis: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

Adhesive capsulitis, commonly known as frozen shoulder, is a condition that causes stiffness and pain in the shoulder joint. This condition develops gradually and can significantly impact daily activities, making it essential to understand its causes, symptoms, and available treatments. In this blog, we’ll delve into everything you need to know about frozen shoulder to help you manage and prevent this debilitating condition.

What is Adhesive Capsulitis?

Adhesive capsulitis is characterized by the thickening and tightening of the shoulder joint capsule, which leads to restricted movement and pain. The shoulder capsule is a connective tissue surrounding the shoulder joint, providing stability. In adhesive capsulitis, this capsule becomes inflamed and stiff, limiting the shoulder’s range of motion.

Causes of Frozen Shoulder

The exact cause of adhesive capsulitis remains unclear, but several factors increase the risk of developing this condition:

1. Age and Gender: It most commonly affects individuals between the ages of 40 and 60, with a higher prevalence in women.
2. Medical Conditions: Conditions like diabetes, thyroid disorders, cardiovascular disease, and Parkinson’s disease are associated with a higher risk of frozen shoulder.
3. Immobilization: Prolonged shoulder immobilization due to surgery, injury, or other conditions can lead to the development of adhesive capsulitis.
4. Previous Shoulder Injuries: Prior shoulder injuries or surgeries can increase the likelihood of developing frozen shoulder.

Symptoms of Adhesive Capsulitis

Adhesive capsulitis typically progresses through three stages:

1. Freezing Stage: This initial stage involves a gradual onset of pain, which worsens over time. As the pain increases, shoulder movement becomes more restricted.
2. Frozen Stage: During this stage, pain may begin to diminish, but the shoulder remains stiff. Daily activities involving shoulder movement become challenging.
3. Thawing Stage: In the final stage, shoulder mobility gradually improves, and pain continues to decrease. Full recovery can take months to years.

Diagnosing Frozen Shoulder

A thorough physical examination by a healthcare professional is crucial for diagnosing adhesive capsulitis. This may include assessing your shoulder’s range of motion and reviewing your medical history. In some cases, imaging tests like X-rays or MRI scans may be ordered to rule out other conditions.

Treatment Options for Adhesive Capsulitis

Treatment for frozen shoulder aims to alleviate pain and restore shoulder mobility. Here are some common approaches:

1. Physical Therapy: Customized physical therapy exercises are essential for improving shoulder mobility and strength. Stretching and range-of-motion exercises help break down the adhesions in the shoulder capsule.
2. Medications: Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, can help manage pain and inflammation. In some cases, your doctor may prescribe stronger medications.
3. Corticosteroid Injections: Injecting corticosteroids directly into the shoulder joint can provide significant pain relief and reduce inflammation.
4. Hydrodilatation: This procedure involves injecting a large volume of saline solution into the shoulder joint to stretch the capsule and improve mobility.
5. Surgery: In severe cases, where conservative treatments fail, arthroscopic surgery may be considered. The surgeon can release the tightened portions of the capsule to improve movement.

Preventing Frozen Shoulder

While it may not be possible to prevent all cases of adhesive capsulitis, certain measures can reduce the risk:

1. Stay Active: Regular physical activity and shoulder exercises can help maintain flexibility and strength.
2. Manage Underlying Conditions: Proper management of conditions like diabetes and thyroid disorders can reduce the risk of developing frozen shoulder.
3. Post-Injury Rehabilitation: After a shoulder injury or surgery, follow your healthcare provider’s rehabilitation plan to prevent prolonged immobilization.

Conclusion

Adhesive capsulitis, or frozen shoulder, is a painful and limiting condition, but with appropriate treatment and management, recovery is possible. If you’re experiencing symptoms of frozen shoulder, seek medical attention promptly to begin an effective treatment plan. At Stride Health, we’re committed to providing you with the information and support you need to manage your health and live a pain-free life. Stay proactive, stay informed, and take steps to maintain your shoulder health.