Understanding Frozen Shoulder

As athletic trainers at Myo-Fit Mobility & Therapy, we’ve seen a wide range of injuries and conditions that can impact an athlete’s or active individual’s performance and daily life. One condition that often flies under the radar but can be particularly debilitating is frozen shoulder. Let’s jump into what frozen shoulder is, its causes, symptoms, treatment options, and most importantly, how athletes can prevent and manage it.

What is Frozen Shoulder?

Frozen shoulder, also known as adhesive capsulitis, is a condition characterized by stiffness and pain in the shoulder joint. It develops gradually and can significantly restrict the range of motion. The condition typically progresses through three stages:

1. Freezing Stage: Pain increases gradually, and the shoulder’s range of motion starts to become limited.
2. Frozen Stage: Pain may diminish, but the shoulder becomes stiffer, severely limiting movement.
3. Thawing Stage: The range of motion begins to improve, and normal movement slowly returns.

Each stage can last several months, and the entire process can take up to two years.

Causes and Risk Factors

The exact cause of frozen shoulder is not well understood, but it’s often associated with periods of immobility or reduced movement. This can result from:

• Injury or Surgery: Shoulder injuries or surgeries that necessitate immobilization during recovery can lead to frozen shoulder.
• Systemic Conditions: Conditions such as diabetes, thyroid disorders, cardiovascular disease, and Parkinson’s disease have been linked to a higher risk of developing frozen shoulder.
• Age and Gender: People aged 40-60 are more likely to develop frozen shoulder, and it’s more common in women than men.

Symptoms

The primary symptoms of frozen shoulder include:

• Pain: A dull or aching pain, typically worsening at night and affecting sleep.
• Stiffness: Significant restriction in the shoulder’s range of motion, making everyday activities challenging.
• Limited Mobility: Difficulty with movements such as lifting the arm, reaching behind the back, or performing overhead activities.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis is primarily based on a physical examination and medical history. An athletic trainer or healthcare provider will evaluate the range of motion and assess the pain levels. Imaging tests like X-rays or MRI may be used to rule out other conditions.

Treatment and Management

While frozen shoulder can be frustrating due to its long duration, several treatment options can help manage symptoms and improve function:

1. Manual Therapy and Rehabilitation: Tailored exercises to stretch and strengthen the shoulder muscles can significantly improve mobility. Consistency is key, even if progress feels slow.
2. Medications: Over-the-counter pain relievers or anti-inflammatory drugs can help manage pain. In some cases, corticosteroid injections may be recommended to reduce inflammation.
3. Heat and Cold Therapy: Alternating between heat to relax the muscles and cold to reduce inflammation can provide relief.
4. Manipulation Under Anesthesia (MUA): In severe cases, a physician may perform MUA, where the shoulder is moved through its range of motion while the patient is under anesthesia to break up adhesions.
5. Surgery: Rarely, arthroscopic surgery may be necessary to remove scar tissue and adhesions within the joint.

Prevention and Tips for Athletes

As ATs, our goal is to help athletes avoid injuries and conditions that can hinder their performance. Here are some tips to prevent frozen shoulder:

• Stay Active: Regular exercise and maintaining a good range of motion in the shoulders can prevent stiffness.
• Proper Warm-Up and Cool-Down: Ensure thorough warm-up and cool-down routines that include shoulder stretches and mobility exercises.
• Listen to Your Body: Don’t ignore shoulder pain. Early intervention can prevent more serious issues.
• Post-Injury Care: If you suffer a shoulder injury, follow a rehabilitation program to maintain mobility and strength, and avoid prolonged immobilization.
• Healthy Lifestyle: Manage underlying health conditions and maintain a balanced diet to reduce the risk of frozen shoulder.

Conclusion

Frozen shoulder can be a challenging condition, especially for athletes who rely on their shoulder mobility for optimal performance. Understanding the symptoms, causes, and treatment options is crucial in managing this condition effectively. If you suspect you’re developing frozen shoulder, don’t hesitate to seek professional advice. Early intervention and a dedicated approach to manual therapy and rehab can make a significant difference in recovery.

Stay proactive, stay healthy, and keep those shoulders moving!