Shoulder pain / Frozen shoulder

What is Shoulder Pain?

Shoulder pain can be a nagging and persistent issue that affects your daily life. It might start as a minor inconvenience but can escalate, making even simple tasks like reaching for a cup or getting dressed challenging.

Common Types of Shoulder Pain

• Acute Pain: Sudden pain that may follow an injury or strain.
• Chronic Pain: Long-lasting pain that persists over weeks or months.
• Referred Pain: Pain that originates from another part of the body but is felt in the shoulder.

Symptoms of Shoulder Pain

Shoulder pain manifests in various ways, including:

• Dull Ache: Often felt in the shoulder joint or around the shoulder blade.
• Sharp Pain: Sharp and stabbing pain, especially with certain movements.
• Stiffness: The shoulder may feel stiff or restricted in its range of motion.
• Swelling: Visible swelling around the shoulder joint.
• Weakness: Difficulty lifting objects or weakness in the arm or shoulder.

Causes of Shoulder Pain

Shoulder pain can stem from various issues:

Rotator Cuff Injuries

The rotator cuff is a group of muscles and tendons that help stabilize your shoulder. Injuries or tears here can cause significant pain.

Tendinitis

Overuse or inflammation of the tendons in the shoulder can lead to tendinitis, causing pain and discomfort.

Bursitis

Inflammation of the bursae (small fluid-filled sacs that cushion the shoulder joint) can lead to pain and swelling.

Shoulder Impingement

This occurs when the tendons of the rotator cuff get pinched between the bones of the shoulder, leading to pain and reduced mobility.

Arthritis

Both osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis can affect the shoulder joint, causing pain, stiffness, and inflammation.

Injury or Trauma

Accidents or falls can cause direct injury to the shoulder, leading to pain and functional impairment.

Understanding Frozen Shoulder (Adhesive Capsulitis)

Frozen shoulder is a specific type of shoulder pain where the shoulder becomes stiff and difficult to move. This condition often develops slowly and can be particularly frustrating because it limits your range of motion.

Symptoms of Frozen Shoulder

• Gradual Onset: Pain starts slowly and worsens over time.
• Stiffness: Significant stiffness in the shoulder affects movement.
• Pain at Rest: Pain may be noticeable even when the shoulder is not in use.
• Limited Movement: Difficulty performing everyday activities due to restricted movement.

Causes of Frozen Shoulder

Frozen shoulder is often linked to:

• Prolonged Immobility: Keeping the shoulder immobile for a long time, such as after surgery or injury.
• Diabetes: Higher risk for individuals with diabetes.
• Certain Health Conditions: Conditions like cardiovascular disease and thyroid disorders.