Do you sometimes feel like your shoulder is stuck in a certain position? Do simple activities, like reaching for an item on the top shelf or putting on a coat, become difficult? You may be suffering from adhesive capsulitis, commonly known as frozen shoulder syndrome. This musculoskeletal condition affects daily movements that we take for granted, but fortunately, with physical therapy and stretching exercises, it can be successfully treated and managed. In this blog post, we will discuss the causes of adhesive capsulitis, its diagnosis, possible treatment options, and tips for effectively managing this syndrome so you can resume your normal daily activities!
Frozen shoulder syndrome: Quésaco!
Frozen shoulder syndrome is a painful and debilitating condition in which the shoulder joint often becomes extremely stiff. This is due to adhesions that form along the membrane of the shoulder capsule. These adhesions limit movement of the shoulder joint, making it difficult, if not impossible, to move the arm without severe pain.
What causes frozen shoulder syndrome?
Frozen shoulder syndrome can have many causes, including injury or overuse, prolonged immobilization due to another health condition, diabetes, and chemical imbalances in the body. Although this condition is most likely to occur in people between the ages of 40 and 60, with no known predilection for either gender, anyone can develop frozen shoulder syndrome and its effects on the joints can get worse over time if not properly treated.
Diagnosis of frozen shoulder syndrome.
Diagnosing frozen shoulder syndrome is a multi-faceted process. First, an evaluation of the patient’s medical history is necessary in order to uncover any underlying physical or medical conditions that may be contributing to shoulder pain. A physical examination of the shoulder joint is also essential to assess range of motion, strength, and tenderness to palpation. Imaging tests such as X-rays, CT scans, and MRIs can help confirm the diagnosis by providing information about the extent of structural damage or soft tissue changes that might be present. Finally, laboratory tests such as blood tests can often rule out other conditions that may be causing similar symptoms.
Once these steps are completed, a doctor can diagnose frozen shoulder syndrome based on the patient’s level of pain and range of motion restriction. Symptoms usually worsen over time, with a decreased ability to perform activities such as reaching above the head and behind the back. Additionally, pain levels increase with movement and decrease after periods of rest due to a buildup of adhesive capsulitis (scar tissue). Other common signs include difficulty sleeping due to discomfort felt when lying on the affected shoulder and weakness in the surrounding muscles that support the shoulder joint.
Attention ! Frozen shoulder syndrome and tendonitis are two different conditions.
Frozen shoulder syndrome should not be confused with rotator cuff injuries or tendonitis; rather, it is an isolated condition characterized by its slow progression over time and visual limitations in range of motion. It is important for patients with this condition to consult a medical professional who will be able to provide them with an individualized treatment plan that may include manual therapy techniques, exercise prescription, medications or injections depending on the condition. the severity of the symptoms.
Treatment options.
Physiotherapy:
It is a common treatment for people with frozen shoulder syndrome. It includes exercises to stretch and strengthen the affected area, improve range of motion and reduce pain. Physical therapists often give instructions on using heat or cold therapy to help manage pain. In some cases, manual manipulation and mobilization techniques are also used.
Medications :
They can also be used to treat frozen shoulder syndrome, such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) to reduce inflammation and over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen to relieve mild discomfort. In rare cases where severe pain persists and other treatments are not effective, corticosteroid injections may be recommended by a doctor.
Surgery :
For more extreme cases that have not responded to other treatments and result in limited range of motion or significant pain, surgery may be an option. The surgery involves manipulating the joint capsule, or even opening it in some cases, in an attempt to restore full range of motion to the affected area by manipulating the tendons and ligaments. Recovery time varies depending on the severity of the frozen shoulder, but most people can expect to return to normal activities several months after surgery.
