Understanding Frozen Shoulder

Frozen shoulder,also called Adhesive Capsulitis, is a common condition that affects the shoulder joint. It leads to pain, stiffness, and restricted movement,making simple activities like combing hair, wearing clothes, or lifting objects very difficult.

What is Frozen Shoulder?

Frozen shoulder happens when the shoulder capsule (the tissue surrounding the joint)becomes thick, tight, and inflamed. Over time, scar tissue may form, further restricting movement.

Frozen Shoulder

Whois at Risk?

Frozen shoulder can affect anyone, but it is more common in:

  • People aged 40  to 60 years
  • Women (more often than men)
  • Individuals with diabetes
  • People with thyroid  disorders
  • Those recovering from shoulder injuries or surgery
  • Patients with prolonged immobilization of the arm

Stagesof Frozen Shoulder

·        Frozen shoulder usually develops slowly and has three stages;

stages

1.    Freezing Stage

o   Gradual onset of shoulder pain

o   Movement becomes increasingly difficult

2.  Frozen Stage

o   Pain may reduce, but stiffness increases

o   Range of motion is severely restricted

3. Thawing Stage

o   Shoulder slowly regains movement

Common Symptoms

  • Constant dull or aching pain in the shoulder
  • Pain that worsens at night or with movement
  • Difficulty lifting, rotating, or moving the arm
  • Progressive stiffness

Treatment Options

 1. Home Remedies & Lifestyle Care

  • Gentle stretching exercises as advised by a physiotherapist
  • Applying warm compress before exercise to relax the joint
  • Regular shoulder mobility activities

2.Medical Treatments (Non-Surgical)

  • Medications: Pain relievers and anti-inflammatory drugs
  • Physiotherapy: Key for restoring motion and flexibility
  • Steroid Injections: Reduce inflammation and pain
  • Hydrodilatation: Injection of fluid to stretch the joint capsule

3.Advanced & Surgical Options

Physiotherapy Treatment

Advance Non-Surgical treatment

TAME (Trans Arterial Micro Embolization)

Trans Arterial Micro Embolization

Procedure;

• A minimally invasive procedure performed by interventional radiologists.

• Targets abnormal blood vessels around the shoulder joint capsule.

• Reduces inflammation and pain by blocking abnormal blood supply.

• Performed under local anesthesia with a small catheter.

• Short recovery time compared to surgical options.

• Effective in patients with diabetes where conservative treatment fails.

Can Frozen Shoulder Be Prevented?

  • Stay active and avoid prolonged immobilization after an injury or surgery
  • Regular shoulder stretches if you are at risk (especially diabetic patients)
  • Early physiotherapy intervention when pain or stiffness starts

✅ Key Takeaway


“Frozen shoulder can be painful, but it is completely treatable. With early diagnosis and proper medical care, most patients recover fully. If you are experiencing ongoing shoulder pain or stiffness, consult Bankers Vascular Hospital for timely treatment and to prevent long-term complications — all without the need for surgery.” 

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