Frozen Shoulder – Symptoms and Causes
Overview
Frozen shoulder (adhesive capsulitis) causes pain and stiffness in the shoulder joint. The condition typically develops gradually, worsens over time, and then improves naturally within 1-3 years.
Risk factors include prolonged shoulder immobility, often following surgery or arm fractures. When the shoulder remains still for extended periods, the risk of developing this condition increases significantly.
While frozen shoulder rarely returns to the same shoulder after recovery, some patients develop the condition in their opposite shoulder within five years. This pattern affects a small percentage of people who have previously experienced the condition.
Signs and Changes
Frozen shoulder goes through three different phases as it progresses.
During the first phase, called the freezing phase, any shoulder movement causes pain. Your ability to move your shoulder becomes more limited over time. This phase typically lasts between 2 and 9 months.
The second phase is the frozen phase. Pain may decrease during this time, but the shoulder becomes more rigid and harder to use. This phase usually continues for 4 to 12 months.
Finally, during the thawing phase, shoulder movement gradually improves. This recovery phase can last from 5 months to 2 years.
Many people experience worse pain at night, which can disturb sleep patterns.
Causes
The frozen shoulder condition happens when the tissue capsule surrounding the shoulder joint becomes thick and tight, limiting movement. Doctors don’t fully understand why this occurs in certain people.
However, keeping your shoulder immobile for extended periods often increases the risk of developing this condition. This commonly follows events like surgery or a broken arm, where movement is restricted during healing.
People who have experienced an injury requiring their arm to be kept still are more vulnerable to frozen shoulder. The lack of movement seems to trigger changes in the joint capsule that lead to stiffness and pain.
Factors That Raise Your Risk
Getting Older and Gender Differences
People over 40 years old have a higher chance of developing frozen shoulder. Women in this age group face an even greater risk than men. The condition becomes more common as we age.
Limited Movement
When your shoulder doesn’t move much for a period of time, you’re more likely to develop this condition. Several situations can lead to reduced shoulder movement:
- Injuries to the rotator cuff
- Arm fractures
- Recovery after surgeries
- Effects of a stroke
Health Conditions
Certain medical conditions are linked to a higher risk of frozen shoulder:
| Condition | Risk Level |
|---|---|
| Diabetes | High |
| Hyperthyroidism | Moderate |
| Hypothyroidism | Moderate |
| Heart disease | Moderate |
| Parkinson’s disease | Moderate |
These health problems can affect how your shoulder heals and moves.
Prevention
Not moving your shoulder during recovery from injuries can lead to frozen shoulder.
This common problem happens after shoulder injuries, broken arms, or strokes.
If you’re dealing with a shoulder injury, talk with your healthcare provider right away.
They can recommend exercises to keep your shoulder mobile while it heals.
Maintaining movement in your shoulder joint, even during recovery periods, is essential for preventing this painful condition.
Your provider can create a safe exercise plan that balances proper healing with necessary motion.
