Frozen Shoulder

What is a Frozen Shoulder? A frozen shoulder (known also as adhesive capsulitis) is a condition that occasionally occurs in older athletes. The shoulder joint is a ball and socket type joint. The top of the humerus bone (ball) fits into the socket of the shoulder and is called the glenohumeral joint. It is this joint and the surrounding capsule that becomes inflammed. It is thought a frozen shoulder may come on as a result of a previous injury, but also can come on for no apparent reason. It affects around 3% of the population and is slightly more common in women. Diabetics and people aged over 40 are more likely to be affected. What are the symptoms? Pain and stiffness in the shoulder joint. Limited range of motion. Pain at night, especially when lying on the affected side. A frozen shoulder usually passes through three phases. The first phase has reasonable movement but is very painful. Through the next phase the pain is reduced but movement becomes very limited (frozen). Finally the shoulder loosens up and returns hopefully to normal function. This whole process can take 2 to 3 years, although most younger athletes should recover with 10 to 12 weeks of proper rehabilitation treatment. What might cause a frozen shoulder? Although this is not yet known for certain there are a few theories: Hormonal reasons - it is more common in women around the time of the menopause, however can still affect men. There may be genetic reasons why certain individuals are more likely to get this condition. Poor posture is thought to cause a shortening in one of the shoulder ligaments which can lead to a frozen shoulder. What can be done? A sports injury therapist or physiotherapist can advise on mobility exercises, especially during the frozen phase. Sometimes cortisone injections are given, particularly during the freezing or initial phase. They may provide a couple of weeks of relief but are rarely thought to cure the problem. A manipulation under anesthetic (MUP) is sometimes performed. The patient is put under general anesthetic and the shoulder joint forced through a full range of motion. However, this can lead to fractures, dislocation and tendon tears in the shoulder. For sports specific training a full rehabilitation programme is required to return the shoulder to full strength and mobility.   The information contained on this site is purely a source of information and can at no time replace the expert eye of a qualified professional. We recommend seeking professional advice before embarking on any form of self treatment. Neither the content or nor any other service provided through mybesttennis.com is intended to be relied on for medical diagnosis or treatment. Never delay in seeking professional advice because of something seen on mybesttennis.com.