Many people have experienced shoulder pain. For most people, shoulder pain is the result of overuse or a strain on the muscles. This type of shoulder pain typically heals on its own relatively quickly.
If you experience chronic shoulder pain accompanied by a reduced range of motion in the shoulder joint, however, it could be a sign of a condition called a frozen shoulder. This article will give you information about a frozen shoulder and the best possible treatment options.
Frozen Shoulder Symptoms
People with a frozen shoulder usually experience pain and extreme stiffness that makes the joint difficult or impossible to move. There are four common stages in the development of a frozen shoulder.
The initial onset of symptoms could last three to four months. You will begin to notice moderate to severe pain in their shoulder that limits mobility.
In the second stage, called the freezing stage, the shoulder pain will gradually increase and may worsen at night. This stage can last for up to five months. You will notice increased stiffness and reduced mobility in the shoulder joint during this time.
The third stage is called the frozen stage. You may notice reduced pain, but the stiffness in the shoulder will worsen. This stage can last between four and twelve months, and the lack of mobility may make it very difficult to complete normal activities.
The final stage of a frozen shoulder is called the thawing stage. During this period, you will slowly regain a normal range of motion in your shoulder, which can RANGE from six months to two years.
Causes and Risk Factors
Doctors do not know exactly what causes a frozen shoulder, but it occurs when the shoulder joint tissues become inflamed. The tissues shrink and become tighter when this happens, causing pain and limited mobility.
Certain groups are more at risk of developing this condition. People recovering from certain medical conditions that limit the range of motion in the shoulder, such as a stroke or a mastectomy, are more likely to develop a frozen shoulder.
Additionally, frozen shoulders are more common in people with medical conditions like diabetes, heart disease, thyroid disease, and Parkinson’s disease. Women are also more likely to develop a frozen shoulder than men. Furthermore, people between the ages of 40 and 60 are most at risk of this condition.
Treating a Frozen Shoulder with Physiotherapy
Having a frozen shoulder can be incredibly frustrating as it can limit your mobility for long periods of time. Because of this, many seek out treatment for their frozen shoulders. Over-the-counter medications can often ease the pain associated with a frozen shoulder in the short term. However, one of the best ways to treat a frozen shoulder is with physiotherapy.
There are a few different approaches to treating a frozen shoulder with physiotherapy. A therapist may recommend a combination of stretching exercises, strength exercises, and posture recommendations to help you ease the pain of your frozen shoulder and regain your range of motion.
Tips to Avoid A Recurring Frozen Shoulder
Because the causes of a frozen shoulder are so unclear, there is no foolproof approach to preventing them. However, physiotherapy can be a great way to prevent a frozen shoulder for people who have recently undergone surgery or other medical procedures on the shoulder area. A therapist can recommend the best gentle stretching and range-of-motion exercises to help you retain your mobility as your shoulder heals.
BPC Physiotherapy
If you are experiencing chronic shoulder pain and reduced range of motion, visit a specialist who can evaluate and diagnose your condition. If you have a frozen shoulder, getting quality physiotherapy could help reduce your pain and regain your mobility.
The team at Bangkok Physiotherapy Center are experienced, professional therapists who offer high-quality care for those suffering from shoulder pain. Contact us today to find out more about frozen shoulder treatment.
