Frozen Shoulder

Frozen-shoulder_man_Prevention is key Sports massage should play an important role in the life of everyone, whether they are injured or not. Sports Massage Therapy is for everyone. For injury. For pampering. For deep relaxation.

Who does it affect?

Frozen Shoulder is extremely uncommon amongst young people, and is almost always found in the 40+ age group, usually in the 40-70 age range.  Approximately 3% of the population will be affected by this, with slightly higher incidence amongst women, and five times higher prevalence in diabetics.

What is Frozen Shoulder?

Adhesive Capsulitis is the medical term for Frozen Shoulder – sometimes abbreviated to FSS (frozen shoulder syndrome).  This is a condition which affects the ability to move the shoulder, and usually only occurs on one side.  Sometimes the problem can spread to the other shoulder (approximately 1 person in 5).

What causes it?

There are two classifications of frozen shoulder syndromes:

  • Primary – No significant reason for pain/stiffness
  • Secondary – As a result of an event such as trauma, surgery or illness

It is not known exactly what causes this problem, however it is thought that the lining of the joint (the capsule) becomes inflamed, which causes scar tissue to form.  This leaves less room for the humerus (arm bone) to move, hence restricting the movement of the joint.

Symptoms

This condition has been described in three phases, so the symptoms will differ depending on the phase of the condition

The Painful Phase

  • Gradual onset of aching shoulder
  • Developing widespread pain, often worst at night and when lying on the affected side
  • This phase can last anywhere between 2-9 months

The Stiffening Phase

  • Stiffness starts to become a problem
  • Pain level usually does not alter
  • Difficulty with normal daily tasks such as dressing, preparing food, carrying bags, working
  • Muscle wastage may be evident due to lack of use
  • This stage can last between 4-12 months

The Thawing Phase

  • Gradual improvement in range of movement
  • Gradual decrease in pain, although it may re-appear as stiffness eases
  • This stage can last between 5-12 months

Enquiries:

Jimmy     07821 368 946

Amanda  07760 126 517