This painful condition, known as frozen shoulder, typically affects individuals in middle age.

Experts offer advice on alleviating sudden pain and stiffness.

This painful condition, known as frozen shoulder, typically affects individuals in middle age.
This painful condition, known as frozen shoulder, typically affects individuals in middle age.

As people grow older, they may develop new health issues that can sometimes be uncomfortable.

Middle-aged individuals who experience shoulder pain may have a condition known as "frozen shoulder."

The stiffness and pain in the shoulder joint, known as frozen shoulder or adhesive capsulitis, can intensify with time, according to Mayo Clinic.

According to the source, symptoms usually progress gradually through three stages: the initial freezing stage, the frozen stage, and finally the thawing stage.

man holding his shoulder in pain
Frozen shoulder develops in three stages: freezing, frozen and thawing. (iStock)

The Mayo Clinic states that the freezing stage, characterized by shoulder pain and restricted movement, can persist for two to nine months.

The shoulder can become stiffer despite the pain relief provided by the frozen stage, which can last from four to 12 months.

The final stage of thawing lasts up to 24 months and improves shoulder mobility.

According to Dr. Samantha Stuek, a primary care sports physician at the Hospital for Special Surgery in New York, frozen shoulder is an inflammatory condition that results in the formation of scar tissue around the shoulder joint capsule, leading to pain.

According to Stuek, the sudden increase in pain he experienced seemed to occur without any warning, and it was more noticeable at night.

Human shoulder pain illustration
Frozen shoulder is an inflammatory condition that creates scar tissue around the shoulder joint capsule, an expert explained. (iStock)

"Suddenly, a gradual decrease in range of motion leads to people being unable to lift their arms, put on jackets, wash their hair, and experience pain with these motions."

According to Stuek, the average age of onset for frozen shoulder is 55, and the condition is about four times more common in women.

The Mayo Clinic noted that a frozen shoulder can result from prolonged inactivity, such as following an arm injury or surgery.

As Stuek pointed out, people with diabetes are more likely to develop inflammatory conditions due to the excess sugar in their bloodstream.

female patient talks with nurse about shoulder pain
People with diabetes, thyroid issues and high cholesterol could be at a higher risk of frozen shoulder. (iStock)

Individuals with thyroid conditions, high cholesterol, or a history of cancer in the shoulder or breast area are at a higher risk.

Tips to relieve frozen shoulder

Stuek advises moving the body and seeking physical therapy to alleviate symptoms during the gradual stages of frozen shoulder.

She stated that one of her favorite exercises is pendulum swings, which involves standing upright, leaning over to one side, and moving your arm in small circles. She added that it is most effective during a warm shower in the morning after waking up.

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The expert also suggests taking ibuprofen or another anti-inflammatory medication for pain relief.

Doctors may also prescribe low-dose steroid or cortisone injections to increase movement.

doctor addresses man's shoulder pain
Experts recommend moving the body and seeking physical therapy to alleviate symptoms. (iStock)

If a frozen shoulder is suspected, Stuek advises seeking a professional for an official diagnosis.

Arthritis can cause decreased motion, which can be confirmed by an X-ray.

Stuek explained that people often experience injuries to their rotator cuff, which can resemble a frozen shoulder due to lack of movement and intense pain.

Patients with frozen shoulder are advised to be patient as healing "takes time," according to the doctor.

by Angelica Stabile

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