Are you suffering from a Frozen Shoulder?

Are you suffering from a Frozen shoulder, medically known as adhesive capsulitis, is a condition characterised by pain and stiffness in the shoulder joint. The term “frozen shoulder” refers to the fact that the shoulder joint becomes difficult to move, as if it’s “frozen” in place. This condition typically progresses through stages and can be quite painful.

Key features of frozen shoulder include:

• Pain: Individuals with frozen shoulder often experience pain, which may be dull or aching and can be more pronounced during certain movements.
• Stiffness: Gradual onset of stiffness in the shoulder joint is a hallmark of frozen shoulder. This stiffness can limit the range of motion.
• Limited Range of Motion: As the condition progresses, the shoulder’s range of motion becomes increasingly restricted, making everyday activities challenging.
• Progression Through Stages: Frozen shoulder typically goes through three stages: the painful stage, the frozen stage characterised by increased stiffness, and the thawing stage where symptoms gradually improve.

The exact cause of frozen shoulder is not always clear, but certain factors may contribute, such as inflammation, shoulder injury, prolonged immobility, or underlying health conditions.

Treatment for frozen shoulder may involve physical therapy, pain management, and in some cases, corticosteroid injections or joint distension to help alleviate symptoms. It’s important to consult with a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate management plan tailored to individual needs.

A joint injection, particularly a corticosteroid injection, can help alleviate symptoms if you are suffering from a frozen shoulder by reducing inflammation and providing pain relief. Here’s how it can help:

1. Reducing Inflammation: In a frozen shoulder, the joint capsule becomes inflamed and thickened, contributing to pain and stiffness. Corticosteroids have potent anti-inflammatory properties. When injected directly into the affected joint capsule, they help decrease inflammation, which can reduce pain and improve mobility.
2. Pain Relief: Corticosteroids also provide pain relief by blocking the transmission of pain signals in the affected area. This can help alleviate the discomfort associated with a frozen shoulder, allowing individuals to move their shoulder more comfortably.
3. Facilitating Movement: By reducing inflammation and pain, a joint injection can make it easier for individuals with a frozen shoulder to engage in physical therapy and rehabilitation exercises. This can help prevent further stiffness and promote gradual improvement in shoulder mobility over time.

It’s important to note that while joint injections can provide temporary relief from symptoms, they are typically used as part of a comprehensive treatment plan for frozen shoulder. Physical therapy, stretching exercises, and other interventions may also be recommended to help improve shoulder mobility and function. Additionally, joint injections may need to be combined with other treatments for optimal results. Always consult with a healthcare professional for personalised advice and treatment recommendations for a frozen shoulder.