फ्रोजेन शोल्डर Frozen shoulder is a common condition in which the shoulder stiffens, reducing its mobility.

It is also known as adhesive capsulitis.

The term “frozen shoulder” is often used incorrectly for arthritis, but these two conditions are unrelated.

Frozen shoulder फ्रोजेन शोल्डर refers specifically to the shoulder joint, while arthritis may refer to other or multiple joints. It commonly affects people aged between 40 and 60 years, and it is more likely in women than in men. It is estimated to affect about 3 percent of people.

It can affect one or both shoulders.

Symptoms

A person with a frozen shoulder will have a persistently painful and stiff shoulder joint.

Signs and symptoms develop gradually, and usually resolve on their own.

Causes

The shoulder is made up of three bones: Scapula – shoulder blade, the collarbone, and the upper arm bone, or humerus.

This is a ball-and-socket joint. The round head of the upper arm bone fits into this socket.

Connective tissue, known as the shoulder capsule, surrounds this joint. Synovial fluid enables the joint to move without friction.

Frozen shoulder is thought to happen when scar tissue forms in the shoulder. This causes the shoulder joint’s capsule to thicken and tighten, leaving less room for movement. Movement may become stiff and painful.

The exact cause is not fully understood, and it cannot always be identified.

However, most people with frozen shoulder have experienced immobility as a result of a recent injury or fracture.

This condition is common in people with diabetes.

Treatment

The aim is to alleviate pain and preserve mobility and flexibility in the shoulder. In time and with treatment, 9 out of 10 patients experience relief.

However, recovery can be slow, and symptoms can persist for several years.

There are several ways to relieve pain and alleviate the condition.

Painkillers: Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs.

Hot or cold compression packs: These can help reduce pain and swelling. Alternating between the two may help.

Corticosteroid injections: A type of steroid hormone that reduces pain and swelling, these may be injected into the shoulder joint to alleviate pain.

Physical therapy: This can provide training in exercises to maintain as much mobility and flexibility as possible without straining the shoulder or causing too much pain.

Shoulder manipulation: The shoulder joint is gently moved while the patient is under a general anesthetic.

Shoulder arthroscopy: A minimally invasive type of surgery used in a small percentage of cases. A small endoscope, or tube, is inserted through a small incision into the shoulder joint to remove any scar tissue or adhesions.

The doctor will suggest a suitable option depending on the severity of signs and symptoms.

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