What is Frozen Shoulder

Understanding of Frozen Shoulder

Frozen shoulder or medically referred to as adhesive capsulitis is characterized by a marked loss of active and passive shoulder motion caused by inflammation and adherence of the capsule to the anatomic neck of the humerus and to itself at the inferior axillary fold.

frozen shoulder

Frozen Shoulder is descriptive diagnosis includes any pathology that limits normal range of motion at the glenohumeral and scapulothoracic joints. Physiological range occurs at both areas with movement in a 2 : 1 ratio, Typical abduction occurs to 90 degrees at the glenohumeral joint before scapular movement is detected, but absent or very limited motion is found here in a patient with frozen shoulder. Pain and range limits are generally gradual in onset and result from capsular scarring against the humeral head.

Frozen shoulder was first described by Codman in 1934, as an idiopathic painful restriction in the range of shoulder joint movement, frozen shoulder make movement even more painpul. Frozen shoulder may decrease so much that performing everyday activities — such as combing your hair, brushing your teeth or reaching for your wallet in your back pocket — is difficult or even impossible. people who suffer from frozen shoulder usually experience problems sleeping for extended periods due to pain that is worse at night and restricted movement/positions, resulting in chronic fatigue and other complications.

Frozen shoulder or Adhesive capsulitis is a painful and disabling condition that often causes great frustration for patients and caregivers due to slow recovery. Pain in frozen shoulder is usually constant, worse at night, when the weather is colder, and along with the restricted movement can make even small tasks impossible. Certain movements can cause sudden onset of tremendous pain and cramping that can last several minutes.

References :
1. Prathivi Raj P: Practical Management of Pain. Third edition, Mosby, 2000
2. Brotzman B: Clinical Orthopedic Rehabilitation, Mosby, 1996
3. Krames Communications, A Guide to The Care and Treatment of common shoulder Problems