The shoulder is one of the body’s most complex joints, and it’s essentially a ball and socket joint that connects the upper arm bone to the scapula. Frozen shoulder syndrome, commonly referred to as adhesive capsulitis, is a condition that causes pain, stiffness, and a lost range of motion.
Unfortunately, the shoulder joint is susceptible to a variety of injuries and conditions, including frozen shoulder syndrome. A frozen shoulder can diminish its functionality, making it difficult to carry out daily tasks, but with prompt treatment, you can overcome the symptoms of this condition and regain the full range of motion of your shoulder joint.
What Causes Frozen Shoulder Syndrome?
Frozen shoulder is more common among women than in men, and it usually occurs in individuals aged 40 to 60-years-old. The exact cause of this condition isn’t yet known, but you may be at a higher risk for developing frozen shoulder if:
- You have diabetes.
- You have certain medical conditions like hyperthyroidism, hypothyroidism, cardiac disease, and Parkinson’s disease.
- Your shoulder was immobilized for a significant period, whether due to an injury or surgery.
The Three Stages of Frozen Shoulder
In each of these stages, patients will most likely experience the following symptoms:
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The Freezing Stage
During this freezing stage, lasting 6 to 9 months, patients gradually experience worsening pain with each shoulder movement. The pain may be worse at night and be accompanied by limited motion in the shoulder.
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The Frozen Stage
During the frozen stage, lasting 4 to 12 months, your shoulder pain may improve, but the joint’s range of motion becomes more limited. It may become more difficult to move the shoulder and carry out daily activities.
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The Thawing Stage
During the thawing stage, the range of motion in the shoulder joint is finally being restored and may take on average 6 and 24 months to regain complete mobility in the shoulder.
At Hernando Orthopaedic, we offer a wide range of treatment options to help you manage and overcome frozen shoulder syndrome. Contact us today to schedule an appointment!