Frozen shoulder, also known as adhesive capsulitis, is a condition that causes significant shoulder pain and stiffness. Recovery can take from six months to two years. The condition progresses through four stages: pre-freezing, freezing, frozen, and thawing. Here’s a clear overview of each stage, their typical duration, and how to manage the condition.
Stages of Frozen Shoulder
Stage 1: Pre-Freezing (1 to 3 Months)
- Symptoms: Shoulder pain, especially noticeable at night or when changing positions in bed. Pain may also occur during shoulder movements, such as raising your arm or reaching behind you. The shoulder might ache even at rest, and movement can be slightly restricted.
- Cause: Often starts with inflammation in the tissue around the shoulder joint. Immobilization after an injury or other conditions like bursitis can contribute, though the exact cause may not always be clear.
Stage 2: Freezing (10 Weeks to 8 Months)
- Symptoms: Significant pain as the shoulder capsule becomes inflamed, thickened, and stiff. This stage makes shoulder movements increasingly difficult and uncomfortable, often severely limiting shoulder use.
Stage 3: Frozen (4 to 12 Months)
- Symptoms: The shoulder becomes very stiff, and neither the patient nor an external person can move it effectively. Pain is usually less severe than in the freezing stage but can still interfere with routine activities like washing your hair or reaching for a seatbelt.
Stage 4: Thawing (5 Months to 2 Years)
- Symptoms: The shoulder capsule gradually loosens, though it remains stiff. While pain decreases, regaining full range of motion can be slow and frustrating. Stretching the shoulder capsule, even if it causes some discomfort, is crucial for improving mobility.
Treatment Options
Physical Therapy: The most effective treatment, focusing on stretching and strengthening exercises to enhance shoulder mobility.
Other Methods:
- Anti-Inflammatory Medications: To reduce pain and swelling.
- Ice and Heat Therapy: To manage discomfort.
- Corticosteroid Injections: To alleviate inflammation and pain.
Surgery: Rarely needed and typically considered only if physical therapy does not help. Surgery may sometimes lead to complications or worsen the condition.
Prognosis
Recovery from frozen shoulder is often a lengthy process, ranging from months to years. It’s important to have realistic expectations and understand that improvement will be gradual. Most people eventually experience significant pain relief and regain normal or near-normal shoulder function.
Summary
Frozen shoulder involves severe pain and limited mobility that progresses through four stages. The primary treatment is physical therapy, with surgery being a less common option. Although recovery can be slow, most patients eventually achieve substantial pain relief and improved shoulder function.