Frozen Shoulder Treatment in Mumbai, India

Frozen shoulder, or adhesive capsulitis, is a condition that causes stiffness, pain, and limited mobility in the shoulder joint. It happens when the shoulder's surrounding connective tissue thickens and gets inflamed. Three stages characterise the progression of the condition: the freezing stage, which is characterised by growing pain and stiffness; the frozen stage, which is characterised by decreased discomfort but persistent stiffness; and the thawing stage, which is characterised by a gradual restoration to mobility.

Early diagnosis and therapy are crucial for the management of a frozen shoulder. Treating symptoms as soon as possible is crucial for a better recovery since fast intervention can reduce discomfort, improve movement, and avoid long-term disability.

Alternative Names

Frozen shoulder is known by several other terms, including adhesive capsulitis, which refers to the thickening and tightening of the shoulder capsule. It is also sometimes called "stiff shoulder syndrome" due to the characteristic loss of shoulder mobility and stiffness it causes. The condition is occasionally called "shoulder capsule inflammation," highlighting the inflammation in the connective tissue surrounding the shoulder joint. These alternative names all describe the same condition but emphasise different aspects of the disorder's symptoms and progression.

Types Of Frozen Shoulders

The two kinds of frozen shoulder include primary adhesive capsulitis and secondary adhesive capsulitis.

Primary Adhesive Capsulitis

We do not yet know the exact causes of this illness. Immune system alterations, as well as metabolic and hormonal abnormalities, are potential reasons.

• Certain neurological and cardiovascular conditions, as well as diseases like diabetes mellitus, may also play a role.
• Compared to the general population, diabetic people are three times more likely to develop adhesive capsulitis.
• The condition may also be resistant to the majority of treatment options.

Secondary Adhesive Capsulitis

Secondary (or acquired) adhesive capsulitis develops from a known cause, such as stiffness following a shoulder injury, surgery, or a prolonged period of immobilisation.

Frozen Shoulder Symptoms

• Gradual onset of pain: Pain typically begins gradually and often worsens with shoulder movement or at night, disrupting sleep.
• Stiffness: The shoulder becomes increasingly stiff, leading to a reduced range of motion, especially in lifting or rotating the arm.
• Difficulty with daily activities: Due to limited mobility and discomfort, simple tasks like dressing, reaching, or lifting objects can become challenging.
• Worsening symptoms: The condition typically progresses through stages, with symptoms intensifying before gradually improving during thawing.

Frozen Shoulder Causes

A capsule of connective tissue encloses the shoulder joint. When this capsule tightens and thickens around the shoulder joint, limiting its range of motion, a frozen shoulder results.

It is unknown why some people experience this. However, it is more likely to occur during prolonged shoulder immobilisation following surgery or an arm fracture.

Frozen Shoulder Diagnosis

Frozen Shoulder doctor will examine you, understand your medical history and assess your symptoms in order to diagnose adhesive capsulitis, often known as frozen shoulder. They are going to:

• Assess your range of motion by moving your shoulder (passive range of motion) and paying attention to your motions (active range of motion).
• People with frozen shoulders have a limited range of motion in both areas, so compare them.
• To rule out other illnesses, such as arthritis, order X-rays. Requesting advanced imaging (MRI or ultrasound) to look for further problems, like a rotator cuff tear, could be necessary.

Frozen Shoulder Treatment

Frozen shoulder treatment focuses on pain relief until the condition improves. If the motion doesn’t return on its own, therapy or surgery may be needed.

Common treatments include:

• Hot and cold compresses to manage pain and swelling.
• Pain-relief medications like NSAIDs (e.g., ibuprofen) or acetaminophen, with stronger options like steroid injections for severe pain.
• Physical therapy for stretching and range-of-motion exercises.
• Home exercise program guided by your healthcare provider.
• TENS therapy blocks pain through a small device.

If pain and stiffness persist after a year, further options may include:

• Manipulation under anaesthesia: The shoulder is moved forcibly under anaesthesia to stretch or tear the joint capsule.
• Shoulder arthroscopy: Small instruments are used to cut through the tight parts of the joint capsule.

Frozen Shoulder Prevention

You can prevent having a frozen shoulder by taking necessary precautions, such as:

• Early Mobilisation: Start gentle movements after injury or surgery to prevent stiffness and frozen shoulder.
  
  
• Managing Underlying Conditions: Control conditions like diabetes and thyroid issues to reduce the risk of a frozen shoulder.
  
  
• Regular Stretching: Perform daily shoulder stretches and exercises to maintain flexibility and prevent stiffness.

Risk Factors For Frozen Shoulders

There are several risk factors for frozen shoulders, such as:

• Age and Gender: Frozen shoulder is more common in people aged 40-60, especially women.
  
  
• Medical Conditions: Conditions like diabetes, thyroid disorders, and heart disease increase the risk of developing a frozen shoulder.
  
  
• Immobilisation: Prolonged shoulder immobility, often due to injury or surgery, can lead to stiffness and a frozen shoulder.
  
  
• Previous Frozen Shoulder: Individuals with frozen shoulders in one arm are at higher risk of developing it in the other arm.
  
  

Complications of Frozen Shoulder

Frozen Shoulders can come with certain complications like:

• Persistent Pain: Chronic pain, especially during movement, can continue even after treatment, affecting daily activities.
  
  
• Limited Range of Motion: Shoulder stiffness can severely restrict movement, making tasks like lifting or reaching difficult.
  
  
• Reduced Quality of Life: Ongoing pain and mobility issues can impact work, hobbies, and overall quality of life, leading to frustration and emotional strain.

Why Choose Nanavati Max Hospital for Frozen Shoulder Treatment?

Nanavati Max Hospital is a top choice for frozen shoulder treatment, offering expert care from experienced orthopaedic specialists. Using advanced diagnostic techniques, including cutting-edge imaging, we accurately assess the condition and develop customised treatment plans tailored to individual needs. Our comprehensive rehabilitation services, including post-treatment physical therapy, promote faster recovery and better outcomes.

Outlook

The outlook for a frozen shoulder is generally positive, though recovery can take time. With appropriate treatment, most patients experience significant improvement in pain and mobility within 1 to 3 years. Early intervention, such as physical therapy and pain management, can speed up recovery and reduce the risk of long-term stiffness. In more severe cases, procedures like steroid injections or surgery may be necessary to restore function. While some individuals may continue to experience mild discomfort or limited movement, most patients regain normal shoulder function and lead an active life. A personalised treatment plan and consistent rehabilitation are the keys to a successful outcome.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How Long Does a Frozen Shoulder Last?

Frozen shoulders can last from 1 to 3 years, gradually improving over time.

2. Can Frozen Shoulders Resolve on Its Own?

Yes, it can resolve on its own, but it may take a long time without treatment.

3. Is Frozen Shoulder Related To Arthritis?

Frozen shoulders are not directly caused by arthritis, but joint inflammation related to arthritis can increase the risk.

4. Can Diabetes Cause a Frozen Shoulder?

Diabetes increases the risk of developing a frozen shoulder due to related changes in the shoulder’s connective tissues.

5. What Type of Doctor Treats Frozen Shoulders?

An orthopaedic specialist typically treats frozen shoulders.

6. Who is Most Likely To Get a Frozen Shoulder?

People aged 40-60, especially women, and those with diabetes or other medical conditions are more likely to develop frozen shoulders.

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