Definition - What does Frozen Shoulder Syndrome mean?
Frozen shoulder syndrome is when the shoulder joint becomes stuck or inflexible, noted by feelings of stiffness, chronic pain, and a limited range of motion (ROM). The capsule is a thick fibrous band that covers the muscles/tendons, doubling as a shock absorber to the shoulder joint. Scarring or adhesions of the capsule occur when it becomes inflamed or after a person sustains an injury.SureHire explains Frozen Shoulder Syndrome
The shoulder acts as a ball-and-socket joint that can move fluidly through different planes of motion against gravity. While there is no definitive cause of frozen shoulder syndrome, it often arises from immobility that follows an injury, overuse of a limb, or a health condition, such as diabetes or stroke. This spillover is tied loosely to random cases of frozen shoulder syndrome that can appear slowly and then recede with time. It is also why a doctor will use a battery of tests, for example, an X-ray, to rule out arthritis or a fractured bone.
Physiotherapy can help increase the range of motion of the shoulder joint and decrease pain over time in cases of frozen shoulder syndrome. The mode of treatment can include passive exercises and active exercises. In the former, the physical therapist will move and stretch the patient's arm to help loosen the capsule to engage motor stimuli. The latter will involve a home exercise program to use independently. For example, a home pulley system or an elastic cord adds neutral resistance to increase mobility in the shoulder joint. While frozen shoulder syndrome can improve with time, corticosteroids can help reduce swelling, or in other cases, surgery options can also help level the curve.
