Adhesive capsulitis, commonly known as frozen shoulder, is a painful and often debilitating condition that can severely restrict the range of motion in the shoulder joint. This condition involves the inflammation and thickening of the shoulder capsule, leading to pain and stiffness. While adhesive capsulitis can develop gradually, it can also occur suddenly, with a recovery phase that might extend over several years.
Symptoms and Diagnosis
The hallmark symptoms of adhesive capsulitis include:
- Persistent Shoulder Pain: Initially, patients experience pain that is often worse at night.
- Stiffness: Gradual increase in stiffness, particularly limiting the shoulder’s external rotation.
- Limited Range of Motion (ROM): Both active and passive ROM are restricted, making everyday tasks difficult.
Patients with frozen shoulder often present with a sudden onset of single-sided pain in the front of the shoulder. The condition typically progresses through three stages: the “freezing” stage (painful phase), the “frozen” stage (stiffness phase), and the “thawing” stage (recovery phase).
Common Misdiagnoses
Many cases of shoulder pain that present in clinics may initially be suspected as frozen shoulder. However, these symptoms can often be attributed to other underlying conditions such as rotator cuff tendinitis, impingement of the rotator cuff, or acromioclavicular (AC) joint pathology. These conditions can cause a painful arc in the shoulder’s ROM, leading to similar presentations as adhesive capsulitis but requiring different treatment approaches.
Problems Often Mistaken for Frozen Shoulder
Distinguishing adhesive capsulitis from other shoulder pathologies is crucial for effective treatment. Conditions that may mimic frozen shoulder include:
- Rotator Cuff Tendinitis: Often involves pain with certain movements but usually does not have the severe ROM restrictions seen in adhesive capsulitis.
- Shoulder Impingement: Characterized by pain during specific arm movements, particularly overhead activities.
- AC Joint Pathology: Can cause localized pain at the top of the shoulder, made worse by activities involving arm elevation.
Treatment and Management
The treatment of adhesive capsulitis primarily focuses on managing pain and restoring shoulder mobility. The management strategies vary depending on the stage of the condition.
Early Stage (Freezing Phase)
- Pain Management: Use of NSAIDs or acetaminophen to alleviate pain. In severe cases, opioid analgesics may be prescribed.
- Physical Therapy: Emphasis on gentle stretching and soft tissue mobilization to control pain and prevent further stiffness.
- Corticosteroid Injections: Can provide significant relief in severe cases, especially when combined with physical therapy.
Developed Stage (Frozen and Thawing Phases)
- Intensive Physical Therapy: Focus on more aggressive mobilization exercises to restore joint mobility.
- Surgical Intervention: In rare, severe cases, arthroscopic capsular release might be necessary.
Prevention and Long-Term Management
Patients are encouraged to maintain a regular exercise routine to prevent shoulder stiffness and promote overall joint health. Consistent physical therapy exercises and gradual reintroduction of normal activities can help expedite recovery and prevent recurrence.
Concerned About Your Shoulder Pain?
At Origin Rehabilitation, we understand the complexities of shoulder pain and are dedicated to providing comprehensive care tailored to your needs. If you are experiencing shoulder pain or suspect you might have frozen shoulder, our team of experts is here to help. We offer thorough shoulder assessments to diagnose the exact cause of your symptoms and develop an effective treatment plan.
Don’t let shoulder pain limit your life. Contact Origin Rehab today to schedule your personalized shoulder assessment and take the first step towards a pain-free future. We specialize in achieving results where others have been unable, ensuring you receive the high-quality physical therapy you deserve. For the best physical therapy in Mint Hill, trust Origin Rehab to help you reclaim your mobility and live a healthier, more active life.
