The Mystery Behind Stiffness and Pain
Imagine waking up one morning and realizing you can’t lift your arm overhead, reach behind your back, or even sleep comfortably on one side. That frustrating stiffness in your shoulder? You might be dealing with a condition called frozen shoulder, or adhesive capsulitis. It can come on suddenly, and before you know it, simple movements become almost impossible.
What is Frozen Shoulder?
Frozen shoulder happens when the capsule surrounding the shoulder joint thickens and tightens. This leads to pain, stiffness, and a restricted range of motion. It’s a puzzling condition because, in many cases, the cause isn’t clear. Some people develop it after an injury, while others may notice the symptoms for no obvious reason.
Causes: What Triggers Frozen Shoulder?
The exact cause isn’t always straightforward, but there are a few factors that may increase your risk:
>> Injury: A shoulder injury like a fracture or rotator cuff tear can make you more prone to frozen shoulder.
>> Immobility: If your shoulder has been immobile for a long time—due to surgery or injury—the chances of developing stiffness increase.
>> Health Conditions: People with conditions like diabetes, thyroid disorders, and Parkinson’s disease are more likely to experience frozen shoulder.
>> Age & Gender: Frozen shoulder usually affects people aged 40-60, and women seem to be more susceptible.
The Stages of Frozen Shoulder
Frozen shoulder progresses in three stages, and understanding these can help you better manage it:
1 Freezing Stage
– What happens? You start noticing pain and stiffness, particularly at night.
– Duration: A few weeks to several months.
– Symptoms: Gradual loss of range of motion and increasing discomfort.
2 Frozen Stage
– What happens? The pain may lessen, but your shoulder feels even stiffer.
– Duration: Several months.
– Symptoms: It’s tough to move your arm, and everyday tasks become difficult.
3 Thawing Stage
– What happens? You slowly start regaining your range of motion.
– Duration: Several months to over a year.
– Symptoms: Movement improves, but full recovery may take time.
Physical Therapy: The Key to Restoring Movement
When I see patients with frozen shoulder, one of the first things I reassure them about is that recovery is possible. Physical therapy is essential for improving mobility and strength. Here’s why:
– Reduce Pain: Gentle exercises can decrease inflammation and discomfort.
– Restore Range of Motion: Stretching exercises help loosen the joint capsule.
– Strengthen Muscles: Strengthening the surrounding muscles supports the shoulder joint and stabilizes movement.
The type of exercises and stretches depend on which stage of frozen shoulder you’re in. We start slow and build up as your shoulder becomes more flexible and mobile.
Practical Tips for Managing Frozen Shoulder in Daily Life
I understand how tough it can be to manage everyday tasks when your shoulder feels stuck. Here are some simple adjustments you can make:
– Dressing: Opt for loose-fitting clothing and front-opening shirts to avoid painful overhead reaching.
– Sleeping: Use a pillow to support your affected arm and avoid sleeping directly on the shoulder.
– Household Chores: Break tasks into smaller steps, and take breaks to prevent overexertion.
Staying Positive and Taking Action
Dealing with frozen shoulder can feel overwhelming, but I want you to know that improvement is possible. By working with a physical therapist and staying consistent with your exercises, you’ll gradually regain mobility and function.
And if you’re unsure where to start, I encourage you to take the first step—book a free Discovery Call with us. We can help create a personalized plan to get you moving again and back to doing the things you love. Don’t wait—your shoulder deserves the care it needs to heal!
Ease your shoulder pain in minutes! Fix it fast with these simple exercises! 💪
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For more information or to see if our Revive-U program is right for you, please contact our clinic. We invite you to watch an informative video explaining the different FDA-approved technologies that help with tissue regeneration and naturally reduce pain. Let’s work together to help you find joy in your journey through life.
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Latest posts by Nick Hunter (see all)
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