Synonym- Adhesive capsulitis
Clinically called “Adhesive Capsulitis,” a frozen shoulder is an extremely painful condition in which the shoulder is completely or partially unmovable. Primary frozen shoulder occurs in diabetics and is associated with a deranged lipid profile. Secondary frozen shoulder may be caused by an underlying problem, such as a rotator cuff tear or bursitis. Accumulation of free radicals in tissues may cause the body’s immune system to mistake a wound for a foreign body and attack the shoulder joint. Resolution of the problem can take in excess of one year. Later the pain subsides and restriction of movements is left behind.
Detailed Description
Symptoms · Pain, especially while sleeping on the shoulder · Little to no range of motion of shoulder joint · Stopping point in range of motion in each direction of shoulder joint asd
Causes and Risk Factors
Causes · Trauma to shoulder joint · Diabetes · Immobilization for an extended period of time · people with chromososomal abnormalities in 7 and 8 chromosomes
Treatment
Heat in the form of short wave diathermy or wax bath. Physical therapy Appropriate pain relief with NSAID’s, steroid injections. Prolonged physiotherapy under the guidance of a physiotherapist is necessary. Start off with pendulum exercises and progress to stretching of the tight capsule. Exercises can be done at home also.
Procedures
The Orthopaedician may order an arthrogram to confirm suspicion of adhesive capsulitis. The Orthopedic surgeon may also order X-rays and a physical exam, as well as arthroscopy to investigate any related condition. He may order manipulation or physical therapy, as well as corticosteroid injections, to treat the painful condition. In the event that the disease is in an advanced stage or satisfactory progress towards regained movements are not made despite adequate physical therapy, surgical intervention may be necessary. The Orthopaedician in India will usually advise a manipulation under anaesthesia after shoulder arthroscopy. Surgical release of the tight coraco humeral ligament and anterior capsule is possible arthroscopically and is less traumatic to the shoulder.
Prevention
Largely unknown. However, since adhesive capsulitis may set in as a result of underuse or immobilization of the shoulder, it is important not to neglect a painful injury. If the shoulder injury does not seem to improve with time and over-the-counter medication, as well as rest and icing the injury, consult the orthopaedic surgeon. |
