Frozen Shoulder (Adhesive Capsulitis):

Frozen shoulder, or adhesive capsulitis, is a condition that affects the shoulder joint, causing pain, stiffness, and a gradual loss of range of motion. It typically progresses through stages and can significantly impact daily activities. Understanding its symptoms, causes, and types is crucial for proper diagnosis and management.

Symptoms:

1. Pain and Stiffness: The hallmark symptoms of frozen shoulder are pain and stiffness in the shoulder joint. Individuals may experience a gradual onset of pain, often more pronounced at night, accompanied by increasing stiffness.
2. Limited Range of Motion: As the condition progresses, there is a noticeable restriction in the range of motion of the affected shoulder. Simple tasks like reaching overhead, behind the back, or across the body become challenging.
3. Pain at Rest: Discomfort may be present even when the shoulder is at rest. This can disrupt sleep and affect overall quality of life.
4. Progressive Symptoms: Frozen shoulder typically evolves through stages, including a painful phase, a freezing phase marked by increasing stiffness, and a thawing phase where symptoms gradually improve.

Causes:

1. Inflammation: Inflammatory processes within the shoulder joint, particularly affecting the capsule—a connective tissue surrounding the joint—are a key factor in the development of frozen shoulder.
2. Scar Tissue Formation: Over time, inflammation can lead to the formation of adhesions and scar tissue within the joint capsule. This contributes to the tightening of the capsule and restricts the normal gliding of the joint surfaces.
3. Risk Factors: Certain factors increase the risk of developing frozen shoulder. Diabetes is a significant risk factor, and individuals with this condition are more prone to experiencing adhesive capsulitis. Previous shoulder injuries, surgeries, or prolonged periods of shoulder immobilization can also contribute.
4. Autoimmune Diseases: Conditions like rheumatoid arthritis, where the immune system mistakenly attacks joint tissues, may be associated with an increased risk of developing frozen shoulder.
5. Hormonal Factors: Some studies suggest a potential link between hormonal imbalances, especially in postmenopausal women, and the development of frozen shoulder.

Types:

1. Primary Frozen Shoulder: Also known as idiopathic adhesive capsulitis, primary frozen shoulder occurs spontaneously without a specific underlying cause. It progresses through the characteristic stages of pain, stiffness, and eventual improvement.
2. Secondary Frozen Shoulder: This type is associated with a specific cause or trigger, such as a previous shoulder injury, surgery, or another medical condition. Secondary frozen shoulder may have a more identifiable origin compared to the primary form.
3. Systemic Diseases: In addition to diabetes and autoimmune diseases, systemic conditions affecting the overall health of connective tissues may contribute to the development of frozen shoulder.

Stages of Frozen Shoulder:

1. Pain (Freezing Stage): The initial phase involves the gradual onset of pain, often more severe at night. This stage can last for several weeks to months.
2. Stiffness (Frozen Stage): As pain persists, stiffness becomes more pronounced. Range of motion is significantly limited, and daily activities become challenging. This stage can last for 4-6 months.
3. Thawing Stage: Gradual improvement in pain and a slow return of shoulder mobility characterize the thawing stage. It can take months to years for individuals to regain full function.

Understanding the symptoms, causes, and types of frozen shoulder is essential for early detection and appropriate management. It’s important for individuals experiencing persistent shoulder pain or stiffness to consult with a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis and tailored treatment plan.