1 – The symptoms
From nowhere, and for no apparent reason, you start to notice an ache in the upper arm. Gradually the pain worsens causing sudden, more severe spasms when you move the arm or bang it against something. Soon you can’t sleep on that side and are getting interrupted nights along with finding it harder and harder to get dressed.
2 – Why does it happen?
Frozen Shoulder, also called Adhesive Capsulitis, is a condition which will affect around 5% of us, mainly during middle age. For such a common condition we don’t exactly know what causes it. It’s more common in women and people who are diabetic can get a more severe form of the condition but otherwise there may be no obvious reason for why we get it.
3 – What can I do for the pain?
Once started, the lining of the joint becomes inflamed causing pain at rest or on moving the joint. At this point the most important treatment is to settle the inflammation. In mild cases this can be through the use of over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medication but in most cases the best treatment is a steroid injection into the joint. If administered early then symptoms can settle quickly and return you to normal function.
4 – What can I do for the stiffness?
If the inflammation stage is ignored and left untreated then the joint lining becomes thickened making the shoulder stiff and, instead of pain, you may find it hard to do daily activities. This stiffness can last up to 12 months (with some studies showing it can go on for even longer than that) so, if things are very disabling, further treatment is recommended. This can be keyhole surgery called capsular release which frees up the joint lining or an injection treatment called hydrodistension which uses a large volume of fluid to loosen the stiffened joint.
5 – What if I do nothing?
If left completely untreated, Frozen Shoulder gradually settles down by itself and typically doesn’t recur on the same side, however once you’ve had it you have an increased chance of getting it on the other side, so being aware of this and seeking early treatment if you notice the tell-tale symptoms will get you back to your old self more quickly.
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