Frozen shoulder (also known as adhesive capsulitis) affects around 2% to 5% of the general population, with a higher prevalence among people around the age of 50, particularly women. Although the onset typically occurs around age 50, some individuals may experience symptoms in their 30s or 40s.
Primary Causes of Frozen Shoulder
Frozen shoulder can be categorized into two types: primary (with no clear cause) and secondary (caused by underlying factors). The most common causes include:
1.Age and Gender
Frozen shoulder is more common in people between the ages of 40 and 60, with women being more affected. As we age, the flexibility of the shoulder joint tissue decreases, increasing the risk of developing frozen shoulder.
2.Chronic Diseases
Conditions like diabetes, thyroid disorders, and heart disease, especially in individuals who have undergone heart surgery, are more likely to develop frozen shoulder.
3.Previous Injury or Surgery
Some cases of frozen shoulder are triggered by shoulder injuries or overuse. Improper arm stretching, external impacts, or staying in a fixed position for a prolonged time can all contribute to the development of frozen shoulder. Lack of rehabilitation after a shoulder injury can also lead to limited shoulder movement and, subsequently, frozen shoulder.
Symptoms of Frozen Shoulder
The main symptoms of frozen shoulder include pain, stiffness, numbness, limited range of motion, and inflammation. If you suspect that you may have frozen shoulder, there are a few simple self-check exercises to help determine if this might be the case. Since frozen shoulder causes tightening of the entire shoulder capsule, all directions of movement are limited. Below are three self-checks you can try:
- Front Arm Lift Test：Slowly try to lift both arms above your head. If you have frozen shoulder, your arms may only raise to shoulder height or slightly above, and you might feel pain. Additionally, observe if your shoulders naturally lift towards your ears during the movement.
- Side Arm Lift Test: Slowly lift your arms out to the sides. If your arms can only raise to shoulder height and cause pain, this could indicate frozen shoulder. Similarly, your shoulders may lift towards your ears, similar to the previous test.
- External Rotation Test: With your arms at your sides, bend your elbows to 90 degrees. Keep your elbows close to your body and try to rotate your arms outward. If you have frozen shoulder, you may not be able to rotate your arms outward smoothly, and the range of motion will be noticeably limited.
Frozen shoulder can resemble other shoulder conditions in terms of pain, but the key difference is that frozen shoulder causes progressive stiffness and significant limitations in movement. Other shoulder conditions are more pain-related and do not typically cause the severe rigidity seen in frozen shoulder. To ensure accurate diagnosis and avoid delays in treatment, it’s highly recommended to schedule a one-on-one consultation with OneEssential physical therapists.
Common Medical Diagnostic Tools for Frozen Shoulder
Hospitals commonly use X-rays and MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) to diagnose frozen shoulder. If you feel uneasy or apprehensive about these diagnostic tools, it’s an excellent idea to consult a professional physical therapist. OneEssential offers more personalized consultations compared to standard hospital clinics, allowing for more time to communicate and identify the true cause of your symptoms, along with a tailored treatment plan.