Frozen shoulder, also known as adhesive capsulitis, is a condition characterized by stiffness and pain in the shoulder joint. It typically progresses through three stages and can significantly limit the range of motion in the shoulder, making daily activities difficult.

Stages of Frozen Shoulder:

1. Freezing Stage:

   • Duration: 6 weeks to 9 months.

   • Symptoms: Gradual onset of pain in the shoulder, which worsens over time. As the pain increases, the range of motion becomes limited.

   • Pain: Often worse at night and can disrupt sleep.

2. Frozen Stage:

   • Duration: 4 to 12 months.

   • Symptoms: Pain may begin to improve, but stiffness remains. The shoulder becomes increasingly difficult to move, and daily activities become more challenging.

   • Movement: Severely restricted; patients often struggle to move the shoulder in any direction.

3. Thawing Stage:

   • Duration: 6 months to 2 years.

   • Symptoms: Gradual improvement in the range of motion. The stiffness begins to decrease, and normal movement slowly returns.

   • Recovery: Full recovery can take a long time, but most people regain a significant degree of movement.

Causes:

• Idiopathic: In many cases, the exact cause is unknown.

• Secondary Causes: Can occur after an injury or surgery, particularly if the shoulder has been immobilized for a period.

• Associated Conditions: Diabetes, thyroid disorders, heart disease, and Parkinson's disease are associated with an increased risk of developing frozen shoulder.

Symptoms:

• Pain: Constant, aching pain that can radiate to the upper arm and neck.

• Stiffness: Marked restriction in the shoulder’s range of motion, making it difficult to perform tasks like reaching overhead, behind the back, or to the side.

• Weakness: Reduced strength in the shoulder due to disuse.

Diagnosis:

• Medical History and Physical Examination: A doctor will review symptoms and perform tests to assess range of motion and pain.

• Imaging Tests: X-rays, MRI, or ultrasound may be used to rule out other conditions, such as arthritis or rotator cuff injuries.

Treatment:

• Physical Therapy: Focuses on stretching and strengthening exercises to improve range of motion.

• Medications: Pain relievers and anti-inflammatory drugs to manage pain.

• Steroid Injections: Corticosteroid injections to reduce inflammation and pain.

• Heat Therapy: Applying heat to the shoulder can help relieve pain and stiffness.

• Surgical Treatment: In severe cases, procedures like manipulation under anesthesia or arthroscopic surgery might be considered to release the tightened joint capsule.

Prevention:

• Early Mobilization: After an injury or surgery, it’s essential to begin gentle movements to keep the shoulder joint from becoming stiff.

• Regular Exercise: Maintaining flexibility and strength in the shoulder through regular exercise and stretching.

Frozen shoulder can be a frustrating and debilitating condition, but with proper treatment and management, most people can achieve significant improvement and return to normal activities. It is important to follow a healthcare provider’s recommendations to manage symptoms and facilitate recovery.