A locked shoulder, medically known as frozen shoulder or adhesive capsulitis, primarily develops due to inflammation (swelling, pain, and irritation) of the tissues surrounding the joint, leading to significant stiffness and a gradual, painful loss of motion.
Understanding a Locked Shoulder
A locked shoulder describes a condition where the shoulder joint's capsule—a strong connective tissue that encloses the joint—becomes thickened, stiff, and tight. This restriction severely limits the shoulder's range of motion, making everyday activities incredibly difficult. It's often compared to the joint being "frozen" in place, hence the common term frozen shoulder.
Key Causes: Inflammation and Tissue Changes
The most common way a shoulder becomes "locked" involves inflammation of the tissues that envelop the joint. This inflammation initiates a process where the joint capsule thickens and contracts, forming dense bands of scar tissue (adhesions). This process reduces the space within the joint capsule, restricting movement and causing pain.
- Inflammatory Response: The initial inflammation can be triggered by various factors, sometimes without a clear injury. This swelling and irritation lead to pain and make the capsule less flexible.
- Scar Tissue Formation: As inflammation persists, the body's healing response can lead to the formation of stiff, fibrous bands within the capsule, effectively "gluing" parts of the joint together.
Who is at Risk? Common Risk Factors
While frozen shoulder can sometimes occur without any obvious cause, certain factors can increase your likelihood of developing this painful condition.
- Age and Gender: It most commonly affects individuals between 40 and 60 years old, with women being more prone to developing it than men.
- Diabetes: People with diabetes are at a significantly higher risk of developing frozen shoulder, often experiencing more severe symptoms and a longer recovery period. The exact link is not fully understood but may relate to glucose affecting collagen.
- Thyroid Conditions: Both an overactive thyroid (hyperthyroidism) and an underactive thyroid (hypothyroidism) are associated with an increased risk.
- Immobilization: Prolonged immobilization of the shoulder due to injury (e.g., a rotator cuff tear, fracture) or surgery (e.g., mastectomy, arm fracture repair) can lead to the joint capsule stiffening.
- Other Medical Conditions: Conditions such as Parkinson's disease, heart disease, and some strokes have also been linked to an increased risk of frozen shoulder.
The Stages of a Locked Shoulder
Frozen shoulder typically progresses through three distinct stages, each with its own set of characteristics regarding pain and range of motion. Understanding these stages can help in managing expectations and treatment.
| Stage Name | Description | Typical Duration |
|---|---|---|
| Freezing Stage | This stage is marked by a gradual onset of increasing pain, often worse at night, and a progressive loss of shoulder motion. Every movement hurts. | 6 weeks to 9 months |
| Frozen Stage | Pain may start to subside during this phase, but the stiffness becomes more pronounced. The shoulder's range of motion is severely limited, making daily tasks challenging. | 4 to 12 months |
| Thawing Stage | During this recovery phase, the shoulder's range of motion slowly and gradually improves. This process can be slow and may take a significant amount of time to resolve fully. | 5 months to 2 years (or more) |
What to Do If You Suspect a Locked Shoulder
If you experience persistent shoulder pain and stiffness that limits your arm movement, it's important to consult a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis. Early intervention can significantly impact the recovery process.
- Professional Diagnosis: A doctor can perform a physical examination and, if necessary, order imaging tests like X-rays or an MRI to rule out other conditions.
- Pain Management: Treatment often involves managing pain with over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medications, and sometimes prescription pain relievers or corticosteroid injections directly into the joint.
- Physical Therapy: A tailored physical therapy program is crucial. It focuses on gentle stretching exercises and range-of-motion activities to gradually restore flexibility and reduce stiffness.
- Home Exercises: Performing specific exercises and stretches as advised by your therapist at home is vital for consistent progress.
- Patience and Persistence: Recovery from a frozen shoulder can be a long process, sometimes taking several years. Consistency with exercises and patience are key.
For more detailed information on managing and understanding this condition, you can explore reputable health resources like [this guide on shoulder health](https://www.example.com/shoulder-health-guide) or [information about physical therapy for joint stiffness](https://www.example.com/pt-for-stiffness).
