Adhesive capsulitis, or frozen shoulder, is the loss of motion and the occurrence of pain and stiffness in the shoulder. The American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons (AAOS) states that this condition affects 2 percent of the general population, mostly those between the ages of 40 and 60. Adhesive capsulitis is diagnosed most often from the patient's history, but X-rays or an MRI may be needed to rule out other conditions. Frozen shoulder typically improves with rest, anti-inflammatory medications and physical therapy. Researchers do not know the exact cause of frozen shoulder, but they have linked adhesive capsulitis to other conditions.
Diabetes
The AAOS states that adhesive capsulitis is most common in individuals with a history of diabetes. Diabetes is a condition in which the pancreas cannot produce enough insulin to control blood glucose levels. Insulin is a molecule that helps glucose, the body's source of energy, into cells to be used. High blood glucose levels, or hyperglycemia, can cause a host of medical conditions, and possibly adhesive capsulitis. In fact, the AAOS states that adhesive capsulitis occurs in 10 to 20 percent of individuals with diabetes. Therefore, a patient with diabetes should take extreme care in managing his blood sugars to prevent adhesive capsulitis.
Immobilization
Prolonged immobilization after a fracture or shoulder surgery may cause the capsule surrounding the shoulder to thicken and contract. This occurs because tendons and ligaments in the shoulder can tighten if they are not used often. Therefore, the best measure to prevent adhesive capsulitis is to move the shoulder as early as directed after surgery. Furthermore, a patient should attend physical therapy if necessary and perform all exercises the physical therapist recommends.
Other Medical Problems
Those with hypothyroidism, hyperthyroidism, Parkinson's disease or cardiac disease are at an increased risk of adhesive capsulitis. Patients with thyroid conditions should have regular check-ups and adhere to using prescribed medications to prevent adhesive capsulitis. Patients with Parkinson's or cardiac disease should remain as active as possible and adhere to the doctor's treatment plan to avoid the development of adhesive capsulitis.
