Frozen Shoulder Symptoms: How To Recognise And Manage This Condition

Frozen shoulder, also known as adhesive capsulitis, is a painful and debilitating condition that affects the shoulder joint. It can significantly limit movement and interfere with daily activities, making early recognition crucial for effective treatment. In this article, we explore the key frozen shoulder symptoms, the stages of the condition, and how to manage it.

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What Are the Symptoms of Frozen Shoulder?

The symptoms of frozen shoulder develop gradually and worsen over time. The most common signs include:

1. Persistent Shoulder Pain

• A dull or aching pain in the shoulder joint, which may extend to the upper arm.
• Pain that worsens at night, making sleep difficult.

2. Stiffness and Reduced Range of Motion

• Difficulty lifting the arm or moving it behind the back.
• Stiffness that makes simple activities, such as dressing or reaching for objects, challenging.

3. Pain That Worsens Before Gradually Improving

• The condition progresses in stages, with symptoms intensifying before improving.

The Three Stages of Frozen Shoulder

Frozen shoulder typically progresses through three distinct stages:

1. Freezing Stage (Painful Stage)

• The shoulder gradually becomes more painful and stiff.
• This stage can last between six weeks and nine months.

2. Frozen Stage (Stiffness Stage)

• Pain may decrease, but the shoulder remains stiff.
• Daily tasks become increasingly difficult.
• This stage can last between four and six months.

3. Thawing Stage (Recovery Stage)

• Shoulder movement slowly improves.
• Full recovery can take several months to two years.

What Causes Frozen Shoulder?

The exact cause of frozen shoulder is not always clear, but risk factors include:

• Age and Gender: Most common in individuals aged 40 to 60, especially women.
• Medical Conditions: Diabetes, thyroid disorders, and heart disease increase the risk.
• Previous Shoulder Injuries or Surgery: Immobilisation due to injury or surgery can contribute to stiffness.

How to Manage and Treat Frozen Shoulder

While frozen shoulder can be painful and frustrating, several treatments can help manage symptoms and improve mobility:

1. Pain Management

• Over-the-counter pain relievers such as ibuprofen or paracetamol.
• Prescription medications in severe cases.

2. Physical Therapy and Stretching Exercises

• Gentle shoulder exercises to improve range of motion.
• Physiotherapy to prevent further stiffness.

3. Heat and Ice Therapy

• Applying a warm compress before stretching can loosen tight muscles.
• Ice packs can help reduce pain and inflammation.

4. Medical Interventions

• Corticosteroid injections to reduce inflammation.
• Hydrodilatation (a procedure that injects fluid into the joint to improve movement).
• Surgery in extreme cases where other treatments fail.

When to See a Doctor

If shoulder pain and stiffness persist for several weeks and interfere with daily activities, it is important to consult a doctor. Early diagnosis and treatment can prevent the condition from worsening and improve recovery outcomes.

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