Frozen Shoulder

Introduction

The shoulder is a versatile joint allowing various movements, but it is prone to conditions like frozen shoulder. This post explores its anatomy, stages, and symptoms.

Anatomy of the Shoulder

To comprehend frozen shoulder, it's essential to understand the anatomy of the shoulder joint. The shoulder is a ball-and-socket joint formed by the humerus (upper arm bone), the scapula (shoulder blade), and the clavicle (collarbone). The humeral head fits into the shallow socket of the scapula, allowing for a wide range of motion. Surrounding the joint is the articular capsule, a flexible tissue that encloses and stabilizes the joint, while synovial fluid lubricates and nourishes it.

Stages of Frozen Shoulder

Frozen shoulder typically progresses through three distinct stages:

  1. Freezing Stage: This initial stage is characterized by the gradual onset of pain and limited range of motion. The pain intensifies with movement, and over time, the shoulder becomes stiffer. This stage can last from a few weeks to several months.

  2. Frozen Stage: During this phase, pain might decrease, but the stiffness remains prominent. Simple tasks like reaching for objects become difficult due to the restricted mobility of the shoulder joint. This stage can last anywhere from 4 to 6 months.

  3. Thawing Stage: In the final stage, the range of motion in the shoulder slowly improves. While complete recovery might take up to a year or more, patients start to regain their normal shoulder function.

Symptoms of Frozen Shoulder

The symptoms of frozen shoulder can be debilitating and frustrating. Common signs include:

  • Pain: The shoulder experiences a dull, aching pain that worsens during movement and at night, often disrupting sleep.

  • Stiffness: Limited range of motion makes even simple tasks like combing hair or fastening a seatbelt challenging.

  • Progressive Loss of Mobility: The shoulder's movement becomes increasingly restricted, affecting the ability to perform everyday activities.

  • Duration: The entire course of frozen shoulder can last 1 to 3 years, but symptoms may vary from person to person.

This is just exploring a small proportion about frozen shoulder. If you have frozen shoulder you may want to seek medical attention.

Hamilton Osteopath, New Zealand, Osteo, Osteopathy, Physiotherapy, rehabilitationCraig O'Connorshoulder, osteopath, osteo hamilton, osteopathy, osteopathic clinic, hamilton osteopathy, Hamilton, frozen shoulder, shoulder injury, injury