Frozen shoulder, also known as adhesive capsulitis, is a condition characterized by stiffness and pain in the shoulder joint. It is more common in individuals with diabetes, particularly poorly controlled diabetes. Below are the details of the condition:
Cause
- Diabetes-related Factors:
High blood sugar can lead to changes in the connective tissues, including thickening and stiffening of the shoulder joint capsule.
Chronic inflammation and reduced blood supply to the joint may contribute.
- Other Factors:
Prolonged immobility due to injury or surgery.
Hormonal imbalances or autoimmune responses.
Symptoms
- Freezing Stage:
Gradual onset of pain, worsening at night or during movement.
Limited range of motion starts developing.
- Frozen Stage:
Persistent stiffness and reduced pain.
Significant restriction in shoulder movement.
- Thawing Stage:
Gradual improvement in mobility.
Pain reduces significantly over time.
Prevention
- Blood Sugar Control:
Maintain optimal blood sugar levels through diet, exercise, and medications.
- Regular Shoulder Movement:
Perform regular stretching and range-of-motion exercises.
- Avoid Prolonged Immobility:
Keep the shoulder active, especially after surgery or injury.
- Healthy Lifestyle:
Maintain a healthy weight and avoid smoking, which may impair circulation.
Management
- Conservative Treatments:
Pain Relief: Over-the-counter pain relievers like acetaminophen or NSAIDs.
Physical Therapy: Stretching, strengthening, and range-of-motion exercises.
Hot/Cold Therapy: Applying heat or cold packs to reduce pain and stiffness.
- Medical Interventions:
Steroid Injections: Reduce inflammation and improve mobility.
Hydrodilatation: Injection of fluid into the shoulder joint to stretch the capsule.
- Surgical Options (in severe cases):
Arthroscopic Surgery: Removing scar tissue to improve movement.
Manipulation Under Anesthesia (MUA): Gentle stretching of the joint under sedation.
- Diabetes Management:
Work closely with a healthcare provider to optimize blood sugar control.
- Complementary Therapies:
Acupuncture or massage therapy may help alleviate pain and stiffness.
Key Notes
The condition may resolve on its own over time, but proper management can speed recovery.
People with diabetes should be vigilant about shoulder pain and stiffness and seek early intervention.