What are the Stages of Frozen Shoulders?

 Stages of Frozen Shoulders Explained

Affecting around 2-5% of the general population worldwide, frozen shoulder has become a major concern these days. Also referred to as adhesive capsulitis, it is a condition that contributes to pain and stiffness within the shoulder joint, which can considerably restrict its movement.  

 
It tends to develop over time, which ultimately results in a decrease in the joint's range of motion. Understanding its phases, signs, and treatment procedures can help in handling this condition effectively. 

 
Keep reading! 

Stages of Frozen Shoulder 

When it comes to a frozen shoulder it generally progresses through three phases: 

• Phase 1: Freezing Stage: You experience increased pain in the shoulder and slowly lose the range of motion during this phase. It often lasts between 2 and 9 months. 
• Phase 2: Frozen Stage: After the freezing stage, this stage is less painful, although stiffness continues. It typically lasts between 4 and 12 months, making daily activities difficult. 
• Phase 3: Thawing Stage: During this last stage, the shoulder starts to recover, possibly reaching the normal range of motion. This may take between 6 months and 2 years. 

Symptoms of Frozen Shoulder 

 
Below are the key symptoms associated with a frozen shoulder: 

• Recurringpain in the shoulder, usually located deep within the joint or at the upper arm. 
• A feeling of stiffness and pain in moving the shoulder, mainly when attempting to lift, reach, or turn the arm. 
• Struggling with everyday activities such as brushing hair, dressing, or reaching behind the back. 
• Worsening of pain at night, frequently disturbing sleep. 
• The pain might radiate past the shoulder into the upper arm region. 

Risk Factors of Frozen Shoulder 

 
The exact cause of the frozen shoulder is unclear. However, there are certain risk factors that may trigger this condition. Knowing them will aid in early detection and prompt medical treatment: 

• Age: Frozen shoulder typically occurs in adults aged 40 to 60 years. The risk rises with age, and thus, it is a common condition among middle-aged people. 
• Gender: Women are more prone to developing frozen shoulders than men. This increased susceptibility in women could be related to hormonal fluctuations, particularly with menopause. 
• Recent Shoulder Injury: Any surgery or injury that forces you to immobilise your shoulder can raise the risk of a frozen shoulder. These include fractures of the collarbone and upper arm, shoulder blade fractures, and rotator cuff tears. Furthermore, shoulder wraps, slings, or bracing to restrict movement can cause stiffness and result in a frozen shoulder. 
• Diabetes: Diabetic patients are at an increased risk of developing a frozen shoulder. Poor blood sugar management can also contribute to the onset of this condition. 
• Other Medical Conditions: There are a number of other diseases and conditions that can cause a frozen shoulder. These include stroke, hypothyroidism, hyperthyroidism, Parkinson's disease, cardiovascular issues, etc. 

How to Diagnose a Frozen Shoulder? 

 
In general, there is no particular test to diagnose a frozen shoulder. Your doctor will perform a physical examination, moving your arm to determine the pain and range of motion. Local anesthetic injections may occasionally be used to help differentiate frozen shoulder from other shoulder conditions but are not routinely required for diagnosis. 

Treatment of Frozen Shoulder 

 
The choice of treatment depends on the severity and the stage of the frozen shoulder. Here are the major treatment methods: 

• Corticosteroid Injections: A direct corticosteroid injection within the shoulder joint reduces inflammation, eases pain, and enhances range of motion. This procedure is usually applied if the pain is acute and is hampering daily activities. 
• Physical Therapy: Physical therapy is one of the predominant methods of curing frozen shoulder problems. It consists of exercises that can stretch and support the shoulder muscles, enhancing the range of movement with time.  
• Joint Distension: In this treatment, a physician injects sterile water into the shoulder capsule. The objective is to stretch the joint capsule, which can aid in increasing shoulder movement and flexibility. This procedure is generally used when other therapies have not given adequate relief. 
• Shoulder Manipulation: In this method, a physician forcibly manipulates the shoulder joint to loosen tight tissues under the influence of general anaesthesia. Manipulation under anesthesia may be considered in selected cases; arthroscopic capsular release is an alternative option, particularly when conservative treatment fails. 
• Surgery: In extreme cases, surgeries like arthroscopy can be performed. It involves the use of small cameras and instruments to dislodge adhesions or scar tissue from the shoulder joint to normalize its movement. 

Best Exercises for a Frozen Shoulder 

The most effective exercises for frozen shoulder are listed below: 

Cross-body reach: Use your good arm to support your injured arm. Lift your injured arm across your chest, stretch it until you feel the stretch in your shoulder. Hold the stretch for 15- 20 seconds. Repeat this process 3 - 5 times a day.   

Towel stretch: Stand upright and hold a 3-foot-long towel behind your back vertically. With the injured arm, hold the bottom end of the towel and the top end with the good arm. Slowly pull upward with your good arm until you feel a stretch in the injured shoulder. Hold it for around 8- 10 seconds. Do this five times, twice a day. 

Outward rotation:  Stand with your upper arms against your sides and your elbows bent at a 90-degree angle. Hold each end of a rubber exercise band in both hands. Keep your good arm still and pull the affected arm outward about 2-3inches. Hold it for 5 seconds. Repeat this process 10-12 times a day. 

Note: With frozen shoulder, you should stretch to the point of a gentle pull or mild discomfort, never into sharp, severe pain. Pushing through severe pain will aggravate the condition. Consult a doctor or physical therapist before starting any exercise regimen to ensure it is appropriate for your specific condition and current stage. 

How to Sleep with a Frozen Shoulder? 

The following are some ways to help you sleep with frozen shoulder: 

1. Sleep with proper head and neck support 
2. Sleep with extra pillows 
3. Sleep with your arms by your side 
4. Use heat for 15-20 minutes before bed 

 
A frozen shoulder is a painful condition, but with appropriate treatment, most individuals recover completely over time. If you are having difficulty with this condition, early treatment is important. It can be alleviated by obtaining professional medical assistance, undergoing physical therapy, and practising self-care. 

Disclaimer: This article is intended for general informational and educational purposes only and should not be considered a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Symptoms, disease progression, and treatment outcomes can vary depending on factors such as age, underlying medical conditions, and the stage of the condition. Consult a qualified healthcare professional for personalized medical evaluation and treatment.

Also Read:

→ What are the Stages of Pneumonia

→ What Are the Stages of a Coma

→ What are the Stages of Depression