Limited motion is an early symptom of a frozen shoulder (also known as
Adhesive Capsulitis), which is a general term denoting all causes of motion
loss in the shoulder. It affects more women than men, with onset occurring
usually between ages 40 and 65. Approximately 10% to 20% of diabetics
may be at risk of developing the condition, as well as those who have
suffered trauma or overuse injuries. Patients with hyperthyroidism, cardiovascular
disease, clinical depression or Parkinson’s disease may also be
predisposed to developing a frozen shoulder.
Causes of Frozen Shoulder
The causes of frozen shoulder are unknown, although it most likely involves
an underlying inflammatory process. The capsule surrounding the shoulder
joint thickens and contracts, leaving less space for the upper arm bone
(humerus) to move. Frozen shoulder can also develop after a prolonged
immobilization because of trauma or surgery to the joint. Usually only
one shoulder is affected, although in about one-third of cases, motion
may be limited in both arms.
Frozen Shoulder Symptoms
If you’re having trouble lifting your arm above your head, reaching
across your body or behind your back, you may have a problem with the
range of motion in your shoulder. Frozen shoulder develops slowly, and
in three stages:
Stage One: Pain increases with movement and is often worse at night. There is a
progressive loss of motion with increasing pain. This stage lasts approximately
2 to 9 months.
Stage Two: Pain begins to diminish, and moving the arm is more comfortable. However,
the range of motion is now much more limited, as much as 50 percent less
than in the other arm. This stage may last 4 to 12 months.
Stage Three: The condition begins to resolve. Most patients experience a gradual restoration
of motion over the next 12 to 42 months; surgery may be required to restore
motion for some patients.
Frozen Shoulder Treatments
Treatment is aimed at relieving the discomfort and restoring motion and
function to the shoulder. Nonoperative treatments include muscle relaxers
and medications (such as aspirin or ibuprofen) to reduce the inflammation
and relieve the pain; heat or ice therapies; corticosteroid injections;
and a program of physical therapy, often combined with home exercises
and other therapies, to stretch and help restore motion and function.
Surgery is an option, but only if there is no improvement after several
months. Arthroscopic surgery can successfully release and repair the shoulder,
but it must be mobile.
*Please note that all physicians are listed in random order and search results are refreshed every hour to comply with Stark Law.
Related Testimonials
Shoulder Scope With Reconstruction"Everyone made you feel like your care was the most important job they had"Provider: Russell S Petrie MD
Shoulder Scope With Reconstruction"Thoughtful and thorough. I appreciate being cared for both as a patient and as a person. Thank you for being you!"Provider: Russell S Petrie MD
Shoulder Replacement"This has been a super easy surgery and recovery and Dr Petrie and Dr Karri gave me so much confidence!"Provider: Russell S Petrie MD
Petrie Shoulder Scope With Reconstruction"Everyone was so nice and pleasant, easy to be around and made me feel less nervous day of surgery."Provider: Russell S Petrie MD
Shoulder Scope With Reconstruction"After care communication with staff was excellent. They were very friendly and effective with my concerns and requests."Provider: David S Gazzaniga MD
Shoulder Scope With Reconstruction"Dr. Petrie's care and attitude was outstanding. He called me at home hours after the surgery to check up on me. The staff was very accessible and always helpful. I felt supported through the whole experience."Provider: Russell S Petrie MD
Shoulder Scope With Reconstruction"The genuine attention and personal care they provide is exceptional. I appreciate the kindness and patience they demonstrate to their patients."Provider: David S Gazzaniga MD
Shoulder Scope With Reconstruction"It was obvious that the team kept my best interests in the forefront."Provider: Russell S Petrie MD
Petrie Shoulder Scope With Reconstruction"His experience as both a triathlete and someone who has personally gone through the same surgery gave me greater confidence."Provider: Russell S Petrie MD
Shoulder Replacement"Time in explaining and listening"Provider: Russell S Petrie MD
Shoulder Scope With Reconstruction"Dr. Petrie & Karri are both very professional, courteous, and friendly. They answer any question you may have directly and in a manner that is easy to understand. They laid out the pros and cons of the surgical procedure and presented the success rate."Provider: Russell S Petrie MD
Shoulder Scope With Reconstruction"Talking through all issues, concerns, and questions. Everyone was personable and professional."Provider: Russell S Petrie MD
Patient Reviews are anonymous and provided through GetWell, a HIPAA compliant patient engagement tool.
Orthopedic SurgeryView Profile
