Adhesive Capsulitis

Question 1

What is it

Answer 1

(Frozen shoulder)
Inflammation and thickening of the shoulder joint capsule

Question 2

Epidemiology

Answer 2

2% - 5% of general population
Females
Higher prevalence in people with diabetes (20% - 30%)and thyroid disease

Question 3

Age

Answer 3

40 - 60

Question 4

Risk

Answer 4

Systemic conditions - diabetes, thyroid disorders, cardiovascular disease
Trauma
Previous surgery
Prolonged immobilisation
Female

Question 5

Presentation

Answer 5

Pain - gradual onset, dull, aching
Stiffness
Reduced ROM
Difficulty with daily activities - lifting arm above head

3 phases -

Freezing - Increasing pain, progressive stiffness
Frozen - Pain may decrease but stiffness/ reduced ROM become more pronounced
Thawing - gradual returning to normal

Question 6

Prognosis

Answer 6

1 - 3 years to fully resolve
Physical therapy and pain management
Some have residual shoulder stiffness and limited ROM
More serious - corticosteroid, surgery