Introduction to Frozen Shoulder (Adhesive Capsulitis)

Frozen shoulder, also known as “50-year shoulder” or adhesive capsulitis, commonly affects individuals around the age of 50, with a higher prevalence among women. Symptoms typically worsen over time, starting with pain in the shoulder joint and progressing to stiffness and severe pain in the arm, eventually limiting the ability to raise the arm and affecting daily activities. Below, we will explore the causes, symptoms, high-risk groups, non-surgical treatment methods, and exercises to relieve pain associated with frozen shoulder.

Causes of Frozen Shoulder(50-Year Shoulder)

Frozen shoulder occurs due to inflammation of the soft tissues surrounding the shoulder joint. This inflammation is often caused by:

  • Degeneration of the shoulder joint.
  • Overuse or repetitive strain on the shoulder muscles.

Symptoms of Frozen Shoulder(50-Year Shoulder)

Frozen shoulder typically progresses through three stages, each lasting several months:

  1. Inflammatory Stage (Freezing Stage):
    • The range of motion in the shoulder begins to decrease.
    • Any movement of the shoulder causes pain.
    • This stage usually lasts 6 weeks to 9 months.
  2. Frozen Stage:
    • The shoulder becomes significantly stiffer, with further reduction in range of motion.
    • Intense pain and discomfort in the neck and shoulder, affecting daily activities.
    • This stage typically lasts 4 to 6 months.
  3. Thawing Stage:
    • Pain may begin to decrease during this stage.
    • However, the shoulder remains stiff, and movement becomes increasingly difficult.
    • This stage can last 6 months to 2 years.

High-Risk Groups for Frozen Shoulder(50-Year Shoulder)

Individuals aged 40-60, particularly women.

People with a history of shoulder injuries or surgeries.

Those with certain medical conditions, such as diabetes, thyroid disorders, or cardiovascular disease.

Individuals with prolonged immobility or reduced shoulder use.

Non-Surgical Treatment Methods

  • Physiotherapy: Stretching and strengthening exercises to improve range of motion.
  • Pain Management: Use of anti-inflammatory medications or corticosteroid injections under medical supervision.
  • Heat or Cold Therapy: To reduce pain and inflammation.
  • Shoulder Manipulation Under Anesthesia: In severe cases, a doctor may gently manipulate the shoulder to break up adhesions.

Common Questions About Frozen Shoulder (50-Year Shoulder)

  1. Does Frozen Shoulder Require Surgery?
  • Answer: Most patients do not require surgery. Conservative treatments, such as physiotherapy and pain management, are usually recommended. The duration of treatment depends on factors like age, severity, and the stage of the condition, often taking several months.
  1. Does Shoulder Pain Always Mean Frozen Shoulder?
  • Answer: No, shoulder pain can have many causes, including acromioclavicular joint injury, shoulder impingement syndrome, rotator cuff tears, cervical radiculopathy, and more. A proper diagnosis through clinical tests is necessary to identify the exact issue.
  1. Is Frozen Shoulder Only a Middle-Aged Condition?
  • Answer: Frozen shoulder is most common in individuals aged 40-60, hence the name “50-year shoulder.” It is rare for people under 40 to develop this condition.

Exercises to Relieve Frozen Shoulder Pain

  1. Pendulum Exercise
    • Steps:
      1. Stand and lean your upper body slightly forward.
      2. Let the affected arm hang down loosely.
      3. Gently swing the arm in small circles or back-and-forth motions.

Repetition: 10 swings in each direction, 3 sets.

  1. Chest Stretch
    • Steps:
      1. Stand with your chest up and core engaged.
      2. Place your hands behind your back, interlock your fingers, and turn your palms upward.
      3. Lift your hands backward while keeping your chest up.
      4. Hold for 30 seconds, feeling a stretch in your chest muscles.

Repetition: 3 sets.

  1. Stick Lift Exercise
    • Steps:
      1. Stand with your chest up and core engaged.
      2. Hold a stick (or similar object) with both hands, palms facing upward.
      3. Keep your elbows straight and lift the stick forward until you feel mild pain.
      4. Hold for 3 seconds.

Repetition: 10 lifts, 3 sets.