A troublesome problem that with early management can shorten the normal time frame for this condition. Here Alex, one of our Chartered Physiotherapists, explains more about Frozen Shoulder, Adhesive Capsulitis.
Frozen Shoulder – What you need to know
What is it?
Frozen Shoulder, also know as Adhesive Capsulitis is a condition that effects the ball and socket portion of the shoulder joint. FS is associated with synovitis and capsular contracture of the shoulder joint.
Frozen Shoulder is more prevalent in women, the diabetic population and an age group of 40-65.
What causes it?
The cause of a frozen shoulder is unclear, but it can be classified into primary or secondary. A frozen shoulder is classified as primary if the cause is idiopathic and secondary if caused by a known event or post surgery.
What are the symptoms?
Limited ROMPain at EOR In the early stages more restriction into IR and ER
What can be done to help?
Three stages;
Acute/freezing/painful phase: gradual onset of shoulder pain at rest with sharp pain at extremes of motion, and pain at night with sleep interruption which may last anywhere from 3-9 months. Adhesive/frozen/stiffening phase: Pain starts to subside, progressive loss of glenohumeral motion in capsular pattern. Pain is apparent only at extremes of movement. This phase may occur at around 4 months and last until about 12 months. Resolution/thawing phase: Spontaneous, progressive improvement in functional range of motion which can last anywhere from 1 to 3.5 years.
Early diagnosis of FS is important, this will enable patient to have injection which can help speed the process along.
Physiotherapy managed and maintain ROM and strength.
Fast Effective Injury & Pain Management