Frozen Shoulder Or Adhesive Capsulitis

WHAT IS FROZEN SHOULDER

Frozen Shoulder, also known as Adhesive Capsulitis, is a condition that causes pain and stiffness in the shoulder joint. It is a condition that is thought to be a result of scar tissue forming within the shoulder joint. This causes the shoulder joint capsule to thicken and tighten, which restricts movement.  

Symptoms tend to begin gradually, worsen over time and can last for 1-2 years. Frozen shoulder can be categorised into three phases: 

          • Freezing Phase:- This beginning phase is where you can feel pain that may last from 6 weeks to 4 months. 
          • Frozen Phase:- During this phase pain may alleviate but you may feel remaining stiffness and daily activities can be difficult. This phase can last between 3-9 months. 
          • Thawing Phase:- This phase lasts between 9-24 months and is usually painless with the stiffness improving slowly.

WHO IS MOST AT RISK?

          • Adults aged between 40 and 60 years old. 
          • Women seem to be more at risk than men.
          • People with prolonged immobility or reduced mobility of the shoulder joint are more at risk of developing Frozen Shoulder. 
          • Those who have experienced a rotator cuff injury, a broken arm, a stroke or surgery. 
          • People who suffer from certain diseases, including Diabetes, Hyperthyroidism, Cardiovascular Disease and Parkinson’s Disease. 
How do we diagnose Frozen Shoulder?

Interestingly, Frozen Shoulder affects both active and passive range of movement. During your consultation, your clinician may ask you to complete certain movements to check for pain and limited mobility. 

Occasionally, your clinician may perform an x-ray or ultrasound scan to rule out other conditions.

How do we treat Frozen Shoulder?

Frozen Shoulder can sometimes resolve itself over the course of 2 years, while symptoms can be treated with over the counter medication, like paracetamol and ibuprofen. It is important to speak to your GP or a Healthcare Professional before any medication is taken. 

Studies show that Physiotherapy can improve range of movement. Specific exercises may be done under the supervision of a physical therapist or as a home programme. 

A steroid injection can be administered to alleviate pain and improve shoulder movement, particularly in the early phases. 

However, in some cases, Frozen Shoulder requires further attention and treatment known as Hydrodilatation.  Hydrodilatation is a specialist procedure used to alleviate pain and restore the range of movement within the shoulder joint. 

WE PROVIDE ADVANCED DIAGNOSTIC ASSESSMENTS AND A WIDE RANGE OF ULTRASOUND GUIDED INJECTION PROCEDURES TO TREAT JOINT PAIN AND SPORTS INJURIES.

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