Frozen shoulder, also known as adhesive capsulitis, is a condition that causes pain and stiffness in the shoulder joint. It is a common condition, affecting up to 2% of the population. While it is more common in people over the age of 40, it can affect anyone.
Is Frozen Shoulder a Muscle Problem?
The short answer is yes, frozen shoulder is a muscle problem. This is because the condition affects the muscles and tendons that surround the shoulder joint, leading to pain and stiffness. The main muscles affected are the rotator cuff muscles, which are responsible for shoulder movement.
Rotator Cuff Muscles
The rotator cuff muscles are a group of four muscles that surround the shoulder joint. They are the supraspinatus, infraspinatus, teres minor, and subscapularis muscles. These muscles help to rotate the arm, lift it, and stabilize the shoulder joint.
When someone has frozen shoulder, these muscles become inflamed and tight. This leads to pain and stiffness in the shoulder. The inflammation can also cause the shoulder joint to become “frozen” in place, preventing movement.
Treatment
Treatment for frozen shoulder typically involves physical therapy and medications to reduce inflammation and pain. Physical therapy may include stretching, strengthening exercises, and massage. In some cases, a steroid injection may be used to reduce inflammation.
In severe cases, surgery may be necessary to release the tight muscles and restore movement. Surgery is typically used as a last resort and is usually only recommended if the condition does not respond to other treatments.
Conclusion
Frozen shoulder is a muscle problem that affects the rotator cuff muscles. It can cause pain and stiffness in the shoulder joint, leading to limited movement. Treatment typically involves physical therapy and medications, but in some cases, surgery may be necessary.