Do you have limited motion in your arm that is getting worse?

Does shoulder pain wake you at night?

Not sure why your shoulder hurts even when not using it?

You may be suffering with a treatable condition called a Frozen Shoulder.

A frozen shoulder or adhesive capsulitis is a condition where a patient experiences progressive pain and loss of motion of the shoulder. This condition affects approximately 3% of individuals during the course of a lifetime (rarely before age 40). It is most prevalent in women between the ages of 40-60. In the majority of cases, the exact cause is not known. However it is known that individuals with diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, and post stroke are more prone to this condition.

A frozen shoulder is often discussed in terms of 3 stages: freezing, frozen and thawing. The length of each stage is variable. The average total time from initial onset of symptoms to full return can range from 9 months to 2 years. The pathophysiology of this condition is one where the capsule (the part that prevents your shoulder from dislocating but allows great mobility) spontaneously scars and tightens. This restricts mobility/range of motion and results in pain.

Most individuals suffer for weeks or even months before deciding to seek treatment. Some doctors will choose to offer injections to help the pain or even a generic exercise program. Often times, physical therapy is recommend to address mobility limitations as well as the pain. In some cases, doctors will even choose to manipulate the shoulder while patient is under anesthesia. The surgical option does carry some risks including tears to the rotator cuff and nerve damage. I have unfortunately treated patients with these side effects.

The next logical question then is what can be done to treat a frozen shoulder? A careful examination by a skilled therapist will determine how aggressive to treat this condition. This is not a condition to just ignore pain and fight on. This is especially true early in the stages as aggression could spur further and faster tightening of the capsule.

After determining how much the shoulder can tolerate, a treatment plan can be developed. Treatment often includes skilled mobilization of the shoulder to restore motion to the joint generally with less pain. This is then coupled with a series of range of motion exercises that will be done regularly on your own to maintain and regain motion. Active participation in treatment from the patient is mandatory.  Patience is also necessary by the patient, as recovery will happen, but generally not fast.

Are you or someone you know suffering from a condition that sounds like a frozen shoulder? If so, then call for help NOW 717-440-6197. Getting your questions expertly answered can make all the difference in the recovery process. It is not enjoyable to have an arm that does not move or is painful at rest.

Find out more about Frozen Shoulders and how they can be treated by clicking this link HERE