Adhesive capsulitis, also known as frozen shoulder, is a condition that affects the shoulder joint and causes pain and stiffness. It occurs when the shoulder joint capsule, the connective tissue surrounding the shoulder joint, becomes inflamed and thickened. This thickening restricts the shoulder's range of motion, making even simple tasks like reaching up to get something from a shelf difficult or impossible.
The exact cause of adhesive capsulitis is unclear, but it is often seen in individuals who have had an injury, surgery, or prolonged immobilization of the shoulder joint. It is also seen in individuals with diabetes, stroke, or other conditions that can cause shoulder immobility.
The most common symptom of adhesive capsulitis is a gradual and progressive stiffness in the shoulder joint. This stiffness can eventually limit the range of motion in the shoulder so much that even the most basic of tasks become difficult or impossible. Other symptoms include pain, weakness, and fatigue in the shoulder joint.
Treatment for adhesive capsulitis usually involves a combination of physical therapy, medications, and in some cases, surgery. Physical therapy focuses on stretching and strengthening the muscles that support the shoulder joint. Medication such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can help reduce inflammation in the shoulder joint and relieve pain. Surgery may be required in some cases to repair the shoulder joint capsule and restore normal range of motion.
Overall, adhesive capsulitis, or frozen shoulder, is a condition that can cause significant pain and stiffness in the shoulder joint. It is often seen in individuals who have had an injury, surgery, or prolonged immobilization of the shoulder joint. Treatment usually involves physical therapy, medications, and in some cases, surgery.