Frozen Shoulder Syndrome

     Frozen shoulder (or adhesive capsulitis) is a condition that is characterized by stiffness and pain in the shoulder joint.  With frozen shoulder, the shoulder capsule becomes inflamed with the potential for scarring to develop.  While the symptoms of frozen shoulder generally begin gradually, they can certainly worsen with the passage of time.  

     It is not generally known what causes frozen shoulder.  That said, patients with diabetes or with thyroid issues are more prone to develop this condition.  Moreover, frozen shoulders are usually more common in women than men. 

    There are three stages of frozen shoulder:

1.  Freezing stage.  This occurs when movement of the shoulder causes pain and there is limited range of motion in the shoulder. 
2. Frozen stage.  At this stage, the shoulder becomes stiffer and it is much more difficult for a patient to even use their shoulder.  
3. Thawing stage.  During this final stage, the patient’s range of motion in their shoulder begins to improve.

    Due to the limited range of motion and inability to use one’s shoulder in the event of frozen shoulder, physical therapy can be a highly effective therapeutic solution.  A physical therapist can stretch the joint and help restore motion and function of the shoulder.  In addition, physical therapy would entail range of motion and stretching exercises, as well as joint mobilizations and strengthening exercises as mobility is regained.  In that regard, some useful exercises include wall walking, doorway stretching, and towel stretching behind back.

Occassionally, surgery is required to release the tight scarred capsular tissue and restore motion.

The saying goes: "a stiff shoulder is an unhappy shoulder".

Author

Lila Crowson MPT Lila completed her Masters of Physical Therapy at LSU Health Sciences Center-New Orleans. She has been a licensed Physical Therapist since 2001 and currently oversees and manages a talented team of therapists and technicians at the Orthopedic Center.