Frozen shoulder, medically known as adhesive capsulitis, is a condition that causes stiffness and pain in the shoulder joint. It typically develops gradually and can worsen over time, severely limiting your range of motion. Dr. Sabyasachi Bardhan, one of the best orthopedic doctors in Kolkata, offers insights into the condition, helping patients understand its causes and treatment options.
Causes of Frozen Shoulder
Frozen shoulder occurs when the capsule surrounding the shoulder joint thickens and tightens, restricting movement. The exact cause isn’t always clear, but it is often associated with:
- Injury: Shoulder injuries or surgeries can trigger the condition.
- Immobility: Prolonged immobility due to an injury, stroke, or surgery can contribute.
- Underlying conditions: People with diabetes or other systemic diseases are more likely to develop frozen shoulder.
Symptoms
Frozen shoulder progresses in three stages:
- Freezing Stage: Gradual increase in pain and limited movement.
- Frozen Stage: Pain may reduce, but stiffness worsens, making daily activities difficult.
- Thawing Stage: Shoulder mobility slowly improves over time.
Treatment
Dr. Bardhan recommends a combination of treatments to alleviate symptoms, including:
- Physical therapy: Targeted exercises to restore movement.
- Medications: Anti-inflammatory medications to manage pain.
- Surgical options: In severe cases, surgery may be necessary to release the tight capsule.
Conclusion
Frozen shoulder can be debilitating, but with proper care and treatment from an experienced orthopedic specialist like Dr. Sabyasachi Bardhan, patients can regain mobility and lead a pain-free life.