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THAWING OUT YOUR
FROZEN SHOULDER |
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by: Craig Schendlinger, MSPT,
CSCS |
Do you
have chronic pain and restricted motion at the shoulder joint? Then you
can consider your shoulder "frozen." The term Frozen Shoulder is a
common diagnosis, however, it is important to understand that this is a
general term that describes the loss of passive range of motion in the
shoulder joint, not a specific condition. Rather, a shoulder can become
frozen as a result of numerous conditions.
The most common cause of a
frozen shoulder is adhesive capsulitis. Often, these terms are
used interchangeably, but remember that a frozen shoulder is a result,
not a cause. Although many conditions can cause a frozen shoulder,
this article will focus on adhesive capsulitis.
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What exactly
is adhesive capsulitis?
It is a
thickening or contraction of soft tissue and structures surrounding the
shoulder complex, which causes pain and restricted motion.
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Who is likely
to get
adhesive
capsulitis?
Unfortunately, anyone can have it, but it is seen
most commonly in females between the ages of 40-65 years old.
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What are the
symptoms of adhesive capsulitis?
Diffuse shoulder pain often
radiating to the lateral arm, forearm, or neck. Most people won't seek
professional help until there is a significant decrease or restriction
of functional activities. For men, this usually comes when there is
difficulty putting on a shirt and tucking it into the pants; for women,
it is when they have trouble hooking their bra.
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How does
someone get adhesive capsulitis?
Often, symptoms have a
spontaneous onset and the cause may be difficult to pinpoint.
Listed are the most common causes, however, sometimes the cause may
remain unknown.
- Result of a previous trauma or immobilization of the shoulder
(i.e. stroke, heart attack, cervical disorder, fracture, rotator cuff
tendinitis, arthritis, inflammation of shoulder joint)
- Systemic disorders can also cause it (i.e. Diabetes, Hypo- or
Hyperthyroidism)
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How is it
treated?
The goal of treatment is to fully restore motion and
function of the shoulder joint conservatively. Following a thorough
evaluation by a licensed physical therapist, a rehabilitation program
specific to your condition will be formed. This program will consist of
appropriate modalities performed by the physical therapist (manual
therapy) as well as therapeutic stretches and exercises performed by the
patient including passive stretching, pain-free joint mobilization, and
active range of motion activities. As range of motion is restored,
strengthening exercises for the rotator cuff and upper extremity muscles
will be added to the program. A comprehensive home program should always
accompany an in-clinic treatment plan as well as patient education
regarding his or her condition.
Sometimes, if physical therapy treatment is unsuccessful, less
conservative methods may be considered such as corticosteroid injections
or even a surgical procedure.
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How long is
the rehabilitation process?
Adhesive capsulitis may take
anywhere from 6 months-3 years to completely resolve. This can be
influenced by many factors including age and severity of the condition.
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What should I do if I suspect my shoulder is
"frozen" due to adhesive capsulitis?
It is important to see your physician immediately.
The longer you wait to start receiving treatment, the longer it will
take to rehabilitate it and chances are you will suffer more pain and
restricted motion.
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See an example of a
Frozen Shoulder Home Exercise Program |
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