Adhesive capsulitis, also known as ‘frozen shoulder’, is a situation in which the person has a significant limitation of shoulder movements, making it difficult to place the arm above shoulder height. This change can occur after long periods of shoulder immobility. This condition affects only one shoulder and is more common in women.
This disease can be found at different stages, which may include:
- In addition.
- The space between the glen and the humerus.
- As well as the space between the biceps and the humerus.
- Are considerably reduced.
- Preventing a complete movement of the shoulder.
- All of these changes can be seen on an imaging exam.
- Such as X-rays at different positions.
- An ultrasound.
- And shoulder atrography.
- At the doctor’s request.
Symptoms include shoulder pain and difficulty lifting your arms, with the feeling that your shoulder is stuck, “frozen”.
Tests that can help identify this disease are x-rays, ultrasounds and arthrography, which are the most important as they show the reduction of synovial fluid in the joint and the reduction of spaces in the joint itself.
Diagnosis may take a few months, because initially the person may have only shoulder pain and some limitation of movement, which may indicate a simple inflammation, for example.
The cause of the frozen shoulder is unknown, making it difficult to diagnose and treatment options. Shoulder stiffness is thought to be due to a process of fibrous adhesions within the joint, which can occur after a shoulder injury or immobilization for an extended period.
People who have more difficulty dealing with the stress and pressures of everyday life have less tolerance for pain and are more likely to develop a frozen shoulder for emotional reasons.
Other diseases that may be associated and appear to increase the risk of adhesive capsulitis include diabetes, thyroid disease, degenerative changes in the cervical spine, neurological diseases caused by the use of medications, such as phenobarbital to control seizures, tuberculosis and myocardial ischemia. .
Treatment is usually done with pain relievers, anti-inflammatory and corticosteroids, as well as physiotherapy sessions to increase shoulder movements, but there are cases where adhesive capsulitis heals spontaneously, with a gradual improvement of symptoms, even without any treatment. so there is not always consensus on the best approach for each phase.
A suprascapular nerve blockage with local anesthetic infiltration and shoulder manipulation under general anesthesia may also be recommended.
Physical therapy is always indicated and gives good results, passive and active exercises are recommended, as well as hot compresses that help release movements gradually. Learn more about adhesive capsulitis treatments here.