Frozen Shoulder Specialist In Jaipur

Frozen shoulder, or adhesive capsulitis, can manifest through various signs and symptoms. Here are common indicators of this condition:

Shoulder Pain: Persistent and often intense pain in the shoulder joint is a hallmark symptom of frozen shoulder. The pain typically worsens at night, making it difficult to sleep on the affected side.

Limited Range of Motion: One of the most noticeable signs is a significant decrease in the range of motion of the affected shoulder. Simple tasks such as reaching overhead, behind the back, or across the body become challenging.

Stiffness: The shoulder joint feels stiff and rigid, making it difficult to move freely. This stiffness can gradually worsen over time.

Painful Movements: Activities that involve moving the shoulder, such as lifting, reaching, or even dressing, can be painful and restricted due to the limited mobility.

Gradual Onset: Frozen shoulder typically develops slowly over several months, with symptoms progressing through distinct stages: freezing, frozen, and thawing.

Pain in Upper Arm: Pain may radiate from the shoulder down the upper arm, making the entire area uncomfortable and tender to touch.

Painful Nighttime: Pain and discomfort often worsen at night, interfering with sleep and causing restlessness.

Difficulty with Activities of Daily Living: Everyday tasks like combing hair, putting on a shirt, or reaching for objects on high shelves become increasingly challenging as the condition progresses.

The common causes of frozen shoulder are as follows:

Age: Advancing age is a significant risk factor for developing frozen shoulder. It tends to occur more frequently in individuals over 40, with the risk increasing as people get older.

Gender: Women are more prone to developing frozen shoulder than men. The reasons for this gender difference are not entirely clear but may be related to hormonal factors.

Medical Conditions: Certain underlying medical conditions can increase the risk of developing frozen shoulder. These conditions include diabetes, heart disease, thyroid disorders, and autoimmune diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis.

Previous Shoulder Injuries or Surgeries: A history of shoulder injuries, surgeries, or trauma can lead to the development of frozen shoulder. Immobilization of the shoulder joint during the recovery period can contribute to the condition.

Prolonged Immobilization: Keeping the shoulder joint immobile for an extended period, such as due to the use of a sling after surgery or an injury, can contribute to the development of adhesive capsulitis.

Autoimmune Diseases: Conditions characterized by an overactive immune system, like rheumatoid arthritis, can increase the risk of frozen shoulder. In these cases, inflammation can affect the shoulder joint’s lining.

Genetics: While not fully understood, there may be a genetic predisposition to frozen shoulder, as it sometimes appears to run in families.

The diagnosis of frozen shoulder typically involves a combination of medical history, physical examination, and, in some cases, imaging tests. Here are common methods used for diagnosing frozen shoulder:

Medical History: Your healthcare provider will start by discussing your symptoms and medical history. They will inquire about the onset of shoulder pain and stiffness, the progression of symptoms, and any relevant medical conditions or previous injuries.

Physical Examination: A thorough physical examination of the affected shoulder is crucial. The healthcare provider will assess the range of motion, strength, and any signs of inflammation or tenderness in the shoulder joint. They may also perform specific tests to check for frozen shoulder, such as the “lift-off” test or the “cross-body adduction” test.

Imaging Tests: While not always necessary, imaging tests can help confirm the diagnosis and rule out other potential causes of shoulder pain. Two common imaging tests used for frozen shoulder diagnosis are:

• X-rays: X-rays can reveal if there are any abnormalities in the bones of the shoulder joint.
• MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging): An MRI can provide detailed images of the soft tissues, including the joint capsule and surrounding structures. This can help in visualizing inflammation and thickening of the joint capsule, which are characteristic of frozen shoulder.

Arthrography: In some cases, a procedure called arthrography may be performed. It involves injecting a contrast dye into the shoulder joint before taking X-rays. This can help outline the joint’s structures and provide additional information about the condition of the joint capsule.

Treatment for frozen shoulder, also known as adhesive capsulitis, focuses on reducing pain, improving shoulder mobility, and helping patients regain functional use of their shoulder joint. Here are common treatment options:

Physical Therapy: Physical therapy plays a central role in the management of frozen shoulder. A physical therapist will work with you to design a customized exercise program that aims to improve shoulder range of motion and strength. These exercises help stretch and strengthen the muscles and tissues around the shoulder joint, gradually restoring mobility.

Pain Management: Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or prescribed medications can help manage pain and reduce inflammation associated with frozen shoulder. Pain management can be particularly important during the early stages of treatment.

Corticosteroid Injections: In some cases, healthcare providers may recommend corticosteroid injections directly into the shoulder joint. These injections can provide temporary relief from pain and inflammation, facilitating more comfortable participation in physical therapy.

Heat and Ice: Applying heat or ice to the affected shoulder can help alleviate pain and reduce muscle tension. Heat can be beneficial before exercises, while ice can be used after activities to minimize inflammation.

Dilatation and Manipulation: In severe cases where other treatments have been ineffective, a healthcare provider may suggest a procedure known as “dilatation and manipulation.” This involves putting the patient under anesthesia and then forcefully moving the shoulder to break up the adhesions in the joint capsule. Following this procedure, physical therapy is crucial for maintaining the newly gained range of motion.

Surgery: Surgery is typically considered a last resort when conservative treatments have failed, and the patient’s symptoms are severely limiting their daily activities. Surgical options may include:

• Release of Joint Capsule: The surgeon releases the tight joint capsule, allowing for improved shoulder movement.
• Manipulation Under Anesthesia: Similar to dilatation and manipulation, this procedure involves moving the shoulder forcefully while the patient is under anesthesia to break up adhesions.

Managing recovery after experiencing frozen shoulder, also known as adhesive capsulitis, requires patience and dedication. Here are eight tips to help you navigate the recovery process effectively:

Follow Your Treatment Plan: Adhere to the treatment plan recommended by your healthcare provider, which may include physical therapy exercises, medications, or other interventions. Consistency is essential for improving shoulder mobility.

Stay Active: Continue to engage in low-impact exercises and activities that your physical therapist suggests. Regular movement can help prevent stiffness and maintain joint mobility. However, avoid overexertion or activities that cause pain.

Stretching Exercises: Perform the prescribed stretching exercises daily to gradually improve your shoulder’s range of motion. These exercises help stretch the joint capsule and surrounding tissues, reducing stiffness.

Pain Management: If you experience pain during your recovery, consult with your healthcare provider about appropriate pain management strategies. Over-the-counter pain relievers or prescribed medications can be helpful.

Heat and Ice Therapy: Use heat or ice as recommended by your healthcare provider. Applying heat before exercises can help relax the muscles, while ice can reduce inflammation and soothe pain after activities.

Maintain Good Posture: Practice proper posture to avoid straining the shoulder joint. Be mindful of your body mechanics and ergonomics, whether you’re sitting at a desk or lifting objects.

Gradual Progression: As you regain shoulder mobility, gradually increase the intensity of your exercises and activities. Pushing too hard too soon can lead to setbacks.

Regular Follow-ups: Attend scheduled follow-up appointments with your healthcare provider and physical therapist. They can monitor your progress, make necessary adjustments to your treatment plan, and offer guidance on how to optimize your recovery.