Frozen shoulder, also known as adhesive capsulitis, is a condition that causes pain, stiffness, and limited range of motion in the shoulder. It is estimated that 2-5% of the population will experience frozen shoulder at some point in their life, with women being more commonly affected than men. In this article, we will explore the common triggers and risk factors that can lead to the development of a frozen shoulder.

There are various reasons for shoulder pain:

Before diving into the causes of frozen shoulder, it's important to understand the common reasons for shoulder pain. The shoulder joint is a complex joint that is capable of a wide range of motion, making it susceptible to injury and pain. Some common reasons for shoulder pain include:

Rotator cuff injuries: The rotator cuff is a group of muscles and tendons that surround the shoulder joint. Injuries to the rotator cuff can cause pain and limit range of motion.

Osteoarthritis: Osteoarthritis is a condition that causes the cartilage in joints to wear down, leading to pain and stiffness.

Bursitis: Bursitis is inflammation of the bursae, which are small fluid-filled sacs that cushion the joint.

Tendinitis: Tendinitis is inflammation of the tendons, which connect muscles to bones.

Shoulder impingement: Shoulder impingement occurs when the rotator cuff tendons become pinched between the bones in the shoulder.

Fractures: Fractures, or broken bones, can occur in any of the bones that make up the shoulder joint.

What Are the Causes of Frozen Shoulder?

Frozen shoulder occurs when the capsule of connective tissue that surrounds the shoulder joint becomes thickened and tight. This can cause pain and limit range of motion in the shoulder. While the exact frozen shoulder causes are not fully understood, there are several triggers and risk factors that can increase the likelihood of developing the condition. Let's take a closer look at these triggers and risk factors.

Age: Frozen shoulder most commonly affects people between the ages of 40 and 60. As we age, the capsule of connective tissue that surrounds the shoulder joint can become thicker and tighter, making us more susceptible to frozen shoulder.

Gender: Women are more commonly affected by frozen shoulder than men.

Injury or surgery: Injury or surgery to the shoulder can cause inflammation and damage to the capsule of connective tissue, leading to frozen shoulder.

Diabetes: People with diabetes are more likely to develop frozen shoulder than those without diabetes. It's not fully understood why this is the case, but it's thought that high blood sugar levels may cause inflammation and damage to the capsule of connective tissue.

Other medical conditions: People with other medical conditions, such as heart disease, thyroid disorders, or Parkinson's disease, may be more likely to develop frozen shoulder.

Prolonged immobilization: Prolonged immobilization of the shoulder, such as wearing a sling or cast for an extended period of time, can increase the likelihood of developing frozen shoulder.

Genetics: There may be a genetic component to the development of frozen shoulder, as it tends to run in families.

Treatment for Frozen Shoulder

If you are experiencing shoulder pain or limited range of motion in your shoulder, it's important to see a doctor for an evaluation. Treatment for a frozen shoulder may include physical therapy, pain management, and in some cases, surgery. Physical therapy can help to improve range of motion and reduce pain, while pain management techniques such as medication or injections can help to manage symptoms. In some cases, surgery may be necessary to release the tight capsule of connective tissue.

If you've suffered an injury that limits your shoulder's range of motion, get in touch with your healthcare provider to learn about the exercises you can do to keep your shoulder joint mobile.