Have you ever felt your shoulder suddenly become difficult to move, stiff, or in severe pain even with simple movements? In the medical world, this condition is known as frozen shoulder or adhesive capsulitis .
Simply put, our shoulder joint is protected by an elastic connective tissue called the shoulder capsule. In this condition, the capsule thickens, contracts, and becomes inflamed. As a result, the joint's range of motion becomes restricted, making the shoulder feel "frozen" and difficult to move normally.
The Long Journey to Healing
One of the hallmarks of frozen shoulder is that it takes a long time to heal, usually between 2 and 3 years . Interestingly, this condition progresses through three distinct phases:
- Freezing Phase : This is the initial stage where pain begins and gradually increases in severity, especially when you try to move your arm. This stage can last between 1.5 and 9 months.
- Frozen Phase : In this stage, pain may subside slightly, but stiffness peaks. The shoulder will be very difficult to move for everyday activities like combing hair or dressing. This phase typically lasts 4 to 6 months.
- Thawing Phase : The good news is that your shoulder mobility will gradually improve and the pain will disappear. This complete recovery process can take 6 months to 2 years.
Who is More at Risk?
To date, the exact cause of sudden thickening of the shoulder capsule remains a mystery. However, experts note several factors that increase a person's risk of developing this condition:
- Age and Gender: Generally experienced by people over 40 years of age, and is more often found in women.
- Medical Conditions: People with diabetes, thyroid disorders, heart disease, and those who have recently recovered from a stroke are at higher risk.
- Lack of Mobility: If you have recently had surgery or an injury (such as a broken bone) that requires your arm to be immobile for a long period of time, your risk of developing a stiff shoulder increases.
Can it be prevented?
The most effective preventative measure is to stay active . If you're recovering from an arm or shoulder injury, be sure to maintain light exercise as recommended by the medical staff at EMC Hospital Tangerang. Maintaining joint mobility is key to preventing hardening and freezing of the connective tissue in your shoulder.
Although frozen shoulder can heal on its own, it's highly recommended to consult a specialist if the pain begins to interfere with your sleep or daily activities. Early, appropriate treatment can help relieve pain and speed up the process of "thawing" your shoulder.
For accurate diagnosis and comprehensive medical treatment, you can visit EMC Tangerang Hospital as the best Orthopedic service center in Tangerang City, Banten.
EMC Tangerang Hospital is supported by a team of experienced orthopedic surgeons and advanced diagnostic facilities such as MRI and CT scans at competitive prices. We are ready to provide the best emergency and reconstructive care, so you can return to active movement without hindrance.
Article written by Dr. M. Alvin Shiddieqy Pohan, Sp.OT (K) Sport Injury (Orthopedic and Traumatology Specialist, Sports Injury Consultant at EMC Hospital Tangerang).