What Is a Frozen Shoulder in Vacaville CA?

Frozen shoulder is a condition that affects the shoulder joint. The pain and stiffness tend to develop over time, gets worse and can go away on its own. Its duration can last anywhere from a year to 3 years.

There are 3 bones in the shoulder that form a ball-and-socket joint. These are the upper arm (humerus), shoulder blade (scapula), and collarbone (clavicle). A tissue surrounding the shoulder joint is responsible for holding them all together. This is known as the shoulder capsule.

When you have a frozen shoulder, these capsules become so thick and tight that it can be difficult to move. It can form bands of scar tissue and decrease the liquid known as synovial fluid that is responsible for keeping the joint lubricated. These two factors can limit the movement of the shoulder even more.

What are the symptoms of a frozen shoulder?

The main symptoms of a frozen shoulder are pain and stiffness, which makes it difficult or impossible to move.

There will be a dull or achy pain in one shoulder. The shoulder muscles that wrap around the top of your arm will also feel pain. This pain can also intensify at night, which could make it difficult to sleep.

You will undergo three phases with a frozen shoulder. Each one comes with unique symptoms and timeline.

Freezing:

• There will be pain in your shoulder every time you move it.
• It gets worse over time and can be more intense at night.
• This can last anywhere from 6 to 9 months.
• The range of movement in your shoulder becomes very limited.

Frozen Stage:

• The pain starts to subside, but the stiffness gets worse.
• It becomes even more difficult to move your shoulder and doing daily activities can be really challenging.
• This phase can last between 4 to 12 months.

Thawing Stage:

• Your range of motion starts becoming normal again.
• This can last between 6 months and 12 years.

What are the causes of a frozen shoulder?

There is no clear explanation as to why some people develop it, but some groups are more at risk.

Women are more prone than men, and it's common for people between the age of 40 and 60. You will also be at risk if you're recovering from a medical condition like a stroke, or surgery like a mastectomy.

Another medical condition that can put you at risk of a frozen shoulder is diabetes. About 10% to 20% of people with diabetes also develops a frozen shoulder. There are other conditions that also has a link to frozen shoulder including heart disease, thyroid disease, and Parkinson's disease but more evidence is needed.

How can I get treated for a frozen shoulder?

The good thing about a frozen shoulder is that it can be treated. One of the most effective treatments for it is using chiropractic manipulations. A manipulation that is focused on the cervical and thoracic spine has provided relief for people with a frozen shoulder. It is effective in reducing pain while also improving the mobility so there's no doubt that you will get back to doing your usual activities in no time.

If you want to avail this treatment, then you need to see Dr. Alex Tam of Absolute Integrative Physical Medicine in Vacaville, CA. You can schedule an appointment by dialing (707) 474-5688 so don't think twice about getting treatment as soon as possible.