Frozen Shoulder: Understanding the Condition

Frozen shoulder, clinically known as adhesive capsulitis, is a medical condition characterized by inflammation, thickening, scarring, and shrinkage of the capsule surrounding the shoulder joint. This condition results in significant pain and restricted mobility in the affected shoulder.

Causes and Risk Factors:

Several factors can contribute to the development of a frozen shoulder. These include:

• Underlying Health Conditions: Conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, and connective tissue disorders are often associated with an increased risk of developing a frozen shoulder.

• Random Causes: In some cases, a frozen shoulder can occur without an apparent underlying cause, making it unpredictable.

• Gender and Age: Women are more commonly affected than men, and the condition typically impacts individuals aged 40 to 60 years old.

Common Symptoms:

The hallmark symptoms of a frozen shoulder include:

1. Pain: Persistent and often intense pain in the affected shoulder.

2. Stiffness: Marked stiffness in the shoulder joint, limiting the range of motion.

3. Difficulty Sleeping: Pain and discomfort may disrupt sleep, making it challenging to find a comfortable sleeping position.

4. Inability to Lie on the Affected Arm: Due to pain and limited mobility, lying on the affected shoulder can be impossible.

5. Reduced Range of Motion: The shoulder’s ability to move through its full range is significantly diminished.

Impact on Daily Life:

A frozen shoulder can have a substantial impact on daily activities. It can make routine tasks, such as driving, getting dressed, or even sleeping comfortably, extremely difficult. Even simple actions like reaching behind the seat in a car or changing gears can become excruciating.

In some cases, a frozen shoulder can affect one’s ability to work and carry out job-related tasks effectively.

In summary, a frozen shoulder is a condition characterized by pain, stiffness, and limited mobility in the shoulder joint. It can be caused by various factors, including underlying health conditions, and it significantly impairs daily activities and quality of life for those affected.