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Frozen Shoulder

Overview:

Frozen shoulder, also known as adhesive capsulitis, is a condition that affects the shoulder joint, causing pain, stiffness, and limited range of motion. It occurs when the connective tissue surrounding the shoulder joint becomes thick and tight, restricting the normal movement of the joint. Frozen shoulder can develop gradually over time and typically progresses through three stages: freezing, frozen, and thawing.

Cause:

The exact cause of a frozen shoulder is not well understood. However, it is believed to be related to inflammation and scarring of the capsule that surrounds the shoulder joint. Risk factors for developing a frozen shoulder may include age (typically affects people between 40 and 60 years old), gender (more common in women), certain medical conditions such as diabetes or thyroid disorders, history of shoulder injury or surgery, and prolonged immobilization or lack of use of the shoulder joint.

Symptoms:

The main symptoms of a frozen shoulder include:

  1. Pain: Pain in the shoulder joint that may be constant or worsen with movement or pressure.
  2. Stiffness: Gradual loss of range of motion in the shoulder joint, making it difficult to move the arm in certain directions or perform everyday activities that require shoulder mobility.
  3. Limited range of motion: Difficulty in reaching overhead, behind the back, or across the body, as well as reduced ability to rotate the shoulder joint.

Diagnosis:

Diagnosing a frozen shoulder typically involves a physical examination by a healthcare provider, who will assess the shoulder’s range of motion, and strength, and perform various tests to rule out other potential causes of shoulder pain and stiffness, such as rotator cuff tears or arthritis. Imaging studies, such as X-rays or MRI, may also be ordered to rule out other structural abnormalities in the shoulder joint.

Akshar Physical Treatment:

Akshar Physical Treatment for a frozen shoulder may vary depending on the severity of the condition and the stage at which it is diagnosed. Options may include:

  1. Conservative measures: Nonsurgical treatments are often the first line of treatment for frozen shoulder and may include pain management with over-the-counter medications, such as acetaminophen or NSAIDs, and physical therapy to improve shoulder mobility and strength. Heat or ice therapy, as well as gentle stretching exercises, may also be recommended.
  2. Steroid injections: Corticosteroid injections into the shoulder joint may be used to reduce inflammation and relieve pain in some cases. These injections are typically administered by a healthcare provider and may provide temporary relief.
  3. Manipulation under anesthesia: In some cases, if conservative measures are not effective, a healthcare provider may perform a manipulation of the shoulder joint under anesthesia. This involves moving the shoulder joint to break up scar tissue and improve the range of motion.
  4. Surgical intervention: In rare cases, if conservative treatments are not successful, surgical intervention may be considered. This may involve arthroscopic surgery to remove scar tissue or manipulation of the joint under anesthesia.
  5. Rehabilitation: Following any treatment, a rehabilitation program may be prescribed to improve shoulder strength, range of motion, and functional abilities. This may include a combination of physical therapy, exercises, and lifestyle modifications.

It’s important to note that the recovery from a frozen shoulder can be slow and may take several months to years to fully resolve. Patience, consistency with treatment, and close follow-up with a healthcare provider are key for the  successful management of a frozen shoulder.