Adhesive capsulitis of the shoulder is also referred to as a frozen shoulder. It is varcharacterized by pain and limited movement of the shoulder joint. Prolonged immobility of the joint is thought to be a contributing factor in the development of this disorder. This disorder is more commonly seen in women over age 50. It may rapidly progress, but more commonly develops over several months to a year. The shoulder is tender to pressure and any movement is restricted.
Causes of Shoulder, Frozen
Adhesive capsulitis, or frozen shoulder, may follow acute inflammation, such as bursitis or tendonitis. It may be seen after systemic disorders, such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, heart attack, or diabetes. The disorder may occur in association with reflex sympathetic dystrophy. Here, there are changes in skin color, texture and warmth of the hand or arm. There may be chronic pain in the arm and hand. The adhesions of the shoulder joint can develop rapidly or more commonly develop over months. The capsule of the shoulder joints becomes thickened and contracted
Signs and Symptoms of Shoulder, Frozen
Frozen shoulder produces limitation of movement of the shoulder joint. Any attempt to move the joint beyond the range it is limited to will produce shoulder pain. The pain may interfere with sleep. The reduced movement leads to further stiffening. A grating or cracking sensation or sound may occur in the shoulder joint. As the disease progresses, the symptoms worsen. There may be little or not motion available at the shoulder. Any movement may produce severe pain. The pain may radiate into the neck and the upper arm.. Sometimes, there are complaints of weakness, pain and tingling in the arm.
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Medical Content Last Updated on 07/12/2008
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