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How to quickly identify frozen shoulder? What diagnostic techniques do experts recommend?
Frozen shoulder, also known as adhesive capsulitis, is a common shoulder condition characterized by shoulder pain and limited range of motion. According to experts, symptoms of frozen shoulder usually develop gradually over a period of weeks to months, and once they occur, patients will experience anything from mild pain to an inability to perform basic arm movements.
“The pain of frozen shoulder is usually dull or aching, and is more noticeable at night and during exercise.”
The exact cause of frozen shoulder is still unclear, but it is usually related to inflammation and scar tissue formation in the shoulder. Certain risk factors, such as diabetes, thyroid disease, etc., are directly related to the development of this condition. Additionally, this condition may occur after a shoulder injury or surgery. Therefore, early identification of frozen shoulder has become an issue that patients and medical professionals need to pay attention to.
Frozen shoulder symptoms and diagnosis
The main symptoms of frozen shoulder include shoulder pain and limited range of motion. In particular, the ability to externally rotate is significantly reduced, but strong pain is usually not felt when the shoulder is touched. Experts point out that the "three stages" of diagnosing frozen shoulder are very important:
The first stage is the 'freeze' or pain period, which can last anywhere from six weeks to nine months. 」
The second stage is the "frozen" or sticking phase, when shoulder pain improves but stiffness persists, which generally lasts four to twelve months. 」
The third stage is the "warm-up" or recovery period, during which shoulder movement gradually returns to normal. 」
The key to diagnosis is to check whether the active and passive range of motion are consistent. If the range of motion is limited, it can be determined to be frozen shoulder. Additionally, ultrasonography and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) can aid in the diagnosis, but imaging studies are usually not necessary for diagnostic purposes.
Treatment methods
While there are various treatment options for frozen shoulder, nonsurgical treatments are usually the initial option. According to research, common treatments include physical therapy, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, and local steroid injections. Treatment focuses on relieving symptoms, improving the shoulder's range of motion, and promoting recovery.
"Exercise and physical therapy are essential to improving shoulder function and reducing pain."
Surgery is usually only considered when conservative treatment is ineffective, mainly to clear the adhesion structure of the shoulder joint. This type of surgery is usually performed arthroscopically and is favored for its minimal invasiveness and quick recovery period. But whether it is surgical or non-surgical treatment, patients need to focus on shoulder exercise and strengthening training during the rehabilitation phase after the illness to maintain good shoulder function.
ConclusionIt takes time for frozen shoulder to heal, and some patients may take 1 to 3 years to fully recover. Importantly, early diagnosis and appropriate management can significantly improve the chances of recovery. Faced with this troubling condition, do you understand the health of your shoulder and how to quickly identify the symptoms of frozen shoulder?
