Adhesive capsulitis, sometimes referred to as “frozen shoulder,” is a condition that causes pain and stiffness in the shoulder. It typically involves a slow, painful process of recovery that can last from months to years. Unfortunately, there is no one-size-fits-all answer to the question of how long it takes for adhesive capsulitis to go away.
Factors That Affect Recovery Time
The amount of time it takes for adhesive capsulitis to go away can vary greatly depending on a variety of factors. Age, weight, general health, activity level, and compliance with physical therapy are all important variables that can influence the length of time for recovery.
Age: The older the patient, the longer the recovery time may be.
Weight: Being overweight or obese can contribute to a longer recovery time.
General health: Having other medical conditions, such as diabetes or heart disease, can increase the length of time for recovery.
Activity level: People who are more active may experience a longer recovery period.
Compliance with physical therapy: Following the prescribed physical therapy regimen can help to speed up the recovery process.
Average Recovery Time
The average recovery time for adhesive capsulitis is three to nine months. However, it can take up to two years for some patients to fully recover.
Treatments for Adhesive Capsulitis
Treatment for adhesive capsulitis typically involves a combination of physical therapy, medications, and lifestyle modifications. Physical therapy can help to reduce pain and stiffness and increase range of motion. Medications may be prescribed to help reduce inflammation and manage pain. Lifestyle modifications, such as avoiding activities that aggravate the shoulder and maintaining a healthy weight, can also help to speed up recovery.
It is important to note that adhesive capsulitis is a slow process and there is no one-size-fits-all answer to the question of how long it takes for adhesive capsulitis to go away. However, with proper treatment and adherence to a physical therapy regimen, recovery times can be significantly shortened.