Frozen shoulder, or adhesive capsulitis, is a condition characterized by stiffness, pain, and restricted movement in the shoulder joint. It develops when the shoulder capsule thickens and tightens, limiting mobility and causing discomfort. This condition typically progresses through three stages—freezing (pain and stiffness develop), frozen (movement becomes severely restricted), and thawing (gradual improvement in mobility).
Frozen shoulder can develop due to prolonged immobility, injury, post-surgical recovery, or underlying health conditions like diabetes, thyroid disorders, or autoimmune diseases. It is more common in individuals over 40 years old, particularly in women. Inflammation and scar tissue formation contribute to the restriction of movement, making early intervention crucial for effective treatment.
Symptoms of frozen shoulder include gradual onset of pain, stiffness, and difficulty in moving the shoulder. As the condition progresses, even simple tasks like lifting the arm, reaching behind the back, or sleeping on the affected side become challenging. The pain may be constant or worsen at night, significantly affecting daily life and sleep quality.
A multimodal approach is key to managing frozen shoulder effectively. Extracorporeal Shock Wave Therapy (ESWT) helps by reducing pain and inflammation, stimulating healing in the affected tissues, and improving blood circulation. Physiotherapy plays a crucial role in restoring movement and flexibility through guided stretching and strengthening exercises tailored to improve shoulder mobility.
For cases where inflammation and damage are significant, Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) therapy is an advanced option. PRP injections use the body's own healing factors to repair damaged tissues, reduce inflammation, and accelerate recovery. Pulsed Signal Repair Therapy (PSRT) is another non-invasive treatment that stimulates tissue regeneration, aiding in softening scar tissue, reducing joint stiffness, and restoring function.
Along with these treatments, consistent physical therapy, gentle stretching, and maintaining an active range of motion are essential to prevent further stiffness. A combination of ESWT, physiotherapy, PRP, and PSRT offers a comprehensive, non-surgical approach to alleviating pain, restoring movement, and improving shoulder function in individuals with frozen shoulder.