Frozen shoulder or adhesive capsulitis is a very common injury that can be very limiting in the daily life of those who suffer from it. Although its incidence is higher between the ages of 40 and 60, it is women over 50 who have the highest risk of developing a stiff shoulder. Its most notorious and frequent symptoms are pain and loss of mobility in this part of the body. In addition, it can interfere with day-to-day work and even prevent you from carrying out certain jobs.
“Of all the joints in the body, the shoulder is the one with the maximum arc of movement: 360 degrees. The full circumference. He forces himself much more and, therefore, he is more likely to suffer injuries”, explains Dr. José Antonio Márquez Sánchez, a specialist in Traumatology and Orthopedic Surgery at the Quirónsalud Clideba Hospital.
In case of suspecting that we have this disease, it is crucial to go to the specialist so that he can carry out the pertinent tests for its diagnosis, such as an ultrasound or an MRI. Although there is no scientific evidence about the specific origin, the appearance of capsulitis in the shoulder is associated with situations in which the shoulder has been immobilized for a long time, such as fractures, strokes or surgeries.
The appearance of shoulder capsulitis is associated with situations in which the shoulder has been immobilized
Other favorable contexts in which frozen shoulder disease can proliferate are related to problems in the cervical spine or other pathologies such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), hyperthyroidism, a heart attack or diabetes mellitus. It will also increase the likelihood of suffering from this condition after suffering from shoulder tendonitis or bursitis.
Risks and prevention
To try to avoid this frequent injury and not cause us discomfort in our day to day, we can perform exercises to strengthen the shoulder and incorporate other measures at work, such as avoiding inappropriate postures that can also affect the back and neck. Likewise, it is also essential to avoid repeated movements with the shoulders.
On the other hand, certain sports such as paddle tennis, tennis or basketball can put the joint at risk: “They cause significant injuries and, for this reason, it is so necessary to warm up and stretch before playing sports,” says Dr. Márquez. It is precisely about specific physical movements that force the shoulders and, in the specific cases of racket sports, force repetitive movements that damage this area.
Different levels of treatment
To alleviate the frozen shoulder, therapies based on infiltrations or conservative treatments can be carried out “by means of analgesics, anti-inflammatories, rest and even, in some cases, rehabilitation,” says the traumatologist. Surgery is only recommended in serious situations: “Shoulder arthroscopy is the technique chosen in most cases, highlighting its great reliability and minimal aggressiveness with magnificent results.”
“Shoulder arthroscopy stands out for its great confidence and minimal aggressiveness”
Another available treatment is the use of a shoulder prosthesis in specific circumstances where the rotator cuff or cartilage has been lost. “However, before undertaking this solution, the condition of the shoulder must be evaluated. Based on the results, the most suitable prosthesis would be chosen, which can be coated, anatomical or inverted”, indicates the specialist from the Quirónsalud Clideba Hospital.
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