Frozen shoulder (medically known as adhesive capsulitis) is a condition characterized by stiffness, pain, and a limited range of motion in the shoulder joint. It occurs when the connective tissue surrounding the joint (the shoulder capsule) becomes thick, inflamed, and tight. This condition severely restricts daily movements and causes significant discomfort, greatly impacting the patient's quality of life. To better understand this condition, please refer to the information below
1. Recognizing the 3 Stages of Frozen Shoulder
The condition typically develops gradually and progresses through three distinct phases:
* The Freezing Stage (Painful Stage): Pain develops with any shoulder movement and often worsens at night. The shoulder gradually loses its flexibility, and the range of motion begins to noticeably decrease.
* The Frozen Stage (Stiff Stage): While the pain may begin to subside during this stage, the shoulder becomes increasingly stiff. Patients face major challenges in daily activities, such as combing their hair, putting on clothes, or reaching behind their back.
* The Thawing Stage: The shoulder joint slowly begins to improve. The range of motion gradually returns to normal or near-normal.
2. Who is Most At Risk?
* People aged between 40 and 60, with women being more commonly affected than men.
* Individuals who have had to keep their shoulder immobilized for a long period due to injury, surgery, or a stroke.
* People with diabetes, thyroid disorders, or cardiovascular diseases
3.Effective Treatment Methods
* Medication: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can be used as prescribed by a doctor to reduce pain and inflammation. In severe cases, corticosteroid injections directly into the shoulder joint may be recommended for rapid relief.
* Physical Therapy: Widely considered the "Golden Key" to treatment. Gentle stretching and joint mobilization exercises help "thaw" the shoulder and prevent the stiffness from worsening.
* Surgery: Rarely needed. This option is only considered after months of conservative treatment have failed, aiming to release the tight scar tissue within the joint capsule
Expert Advice: Do not just try to endure the pain or completely immobilize your shoulder on your own—this will only cause the joint to freeze faster. If you or your loved ones are experiencing shoulder issues, please proactively visit a reputable medical facility. Alternatively, you can message the Khanh An Rehabilitation Clinic right away for the fastest consultation. We are always here to listen and answer all your questions 
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