Frozen Shoulder
Conditions and Responses Home
Frozen shoulder or
Adhesive Capsulitis is a painful condition in which
the shoulder loses its range of movements. This condition is referred to as
"frozen shoulder" because it becomes very difficult for a person to move
their
shoulder. The shoulder is not actually frozen, it is just stiff. It may
follow an injury to the shoulder, but may also arise gradually without
warning or injury.
Adhesive Capsulitis causes scar tissue to form in the shoulder region. This
may occur as a result of injury. Other conditions like tendonitis
(inflammation or irritation of a tendon) and bursitis (inflammation or
irritation of a bursa). If the shoulder has been immobilized for a long
period of time, Adhesive Capsulitis could develop as a result.
Symptoms of Frozen Shoulder
The condition is characterized by a decrease in motion, primarily seen in
lifting the arm and turning it inwards. People usually experience
Pain as the first symptom of frozen shoulder, area shown in the below
picture, followed by a loss of motion and a decrease in pain.
Frozen Shoulder Pain Information
Normally a gradual return of motion will follow; however, the length of time
for recovery from frozen shoulder can be lengthy, with an average duration
of between 16 and 20 months.
Causes of Frozen Shoulder
The condition could also develop as a result of an autoimmune reaction. The
body thinks it is under attack during an autoimmune reaction and will start
to attack parts of itself causing an inflammatory reaction in the tissues.
However, in most cases, the cause is unknown.
