Introduction:

Adhesive capsulitis, commonly known as frozen shoulder syndrome, is a debilitating condition characterized by pain, stiffness, and limited range of motion in the shoulder joint. This article provides a comprehensive overview of adhesive capsulitis, including its causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and management strategies.

Understanding Adhesive Capsulitis:

Adhesive capsulitis is a condition characterized by inflammation and thickening of the shoulder joint capsule, leading to the formation of adhesions and restricted movement. While the exact cause of adhesive capsulitis is not fully understood, it is believed to result from a combination of factors, including inflammation, autoimmune response, and tissue fibrosis.

Symptoms of Adhesive Capsulitis:

The hallmark symptoms of adhesive capsulitis include:

• Persistent shoulder pain, often worsening at night
• Gradual onset of stiffness and limited range of motion in the shoulder joint
• Difficulty performing daily activities, such as reaching overhead or behind the back
• Pain or discomfort with shoulder movement, particularly during abduction or external rotation
• Progressive loss of shoulder function and flexibility over time

Causes and Risk Factors:

While the exact cause of adhesive capsulitis remains unclear, several factors may contribute to its development, including:

• Shoulder trauma or injury, such as fractures, dislocations, or repetitive strain injuries
• Prolonged immobilization or lack of use of the shoulder joint, such as after surgery or injury
• Systemic conditions, including diabetes, thyroid disorders, autoimmune diseases, and heart disease
• Hormonal changes, such as fluctuations in estrogen levels, particularly in women
• Genetic predisposition or family history of adhesive capsulitis

Diagnosis of Adhesive Capsulitis:

Diagnosing adhesive capsulitis typically involves a combination of clinical evaluation, medical history, and imaging studies, including:

• Physical examination to assess shoulder range of motion, strength, and stability, as well as identify areas of tenderness or muscle atrophy
• Medical history to identify any preceding trauma, surgeries, or systemic conditions that may contribute to adhesive capsulitis
• Imaging studies, such as X-rays, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), or ultrasound, to evaluate the integrity of the shoulder joint structures, rule out other causes of shoulder pain, and assess the extent of joint inflammation and capsular thickening

Management Strategies for Adhesive Capsulitis:

Treatment for adhesive capsulitis aims to alleviate pain, restore shoulder mobility, and improve function. Management strategies may include:

• Physical therapy: Gentle stretching exercises, range of motion exercises, and manual therapy techniques can help improve shoulder flexibility, reduce stiffness, and restore joint mobility.
• Pain management: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), corticosteroid injections, or analgesic medications may be prescribed to alleviate pain and inflammation.
• Joint mobilization: In some cases, manipulation under anesthesia or arthroscopic capsular release may be performed to break up adhesions and improve joint mobility.
• Home exercises: Patients are often prescribed home exercise programs to maintain shoulder mobility and prevent stiffness recurrence.
• Patient education: Educating patients about the condition, proper shoulder mechanics, and strategies for pain management and self-care can help empower individuals to manage their symptoms effectively.

Conclusion:

Adhesive capsulitis, or frozen shoulder syndrome, is a painful and disabling condition characterized by shoulder pain, stiffness, and restricted range of motion. Early diagnosis and comprehensive management are essential for improving symptoms, restoring shoulder function, and optimizing the quality of life for affected individuals.

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