According to the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, frozen shoulder is described as chronic pain and the loss of motion or stiffness in the shoulder. This condition affects 2 percent of the general population and commonly occurs in those between the ages of 40 and 60. The causes of frozen shoulder are not completely understood; however, researchers have noted strong possible causes of this condition.
Diabetes
According to MayoClinic.com, many people with diabetes also have frozen shoulder. In fact, the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons states that 10 to 20 percent of diabetic patients have a frozen shoulder. This may occur because diabetes is a disease in which high blood sugar levels affects small blood vessels. Small blood vessels in the shoulder may become damaged in diabetes, which may lead to the symptoms of a frozen shoulder. MayoClinic.com further states that because people with diabetes are prone to frozen shoulder there may be an autoimmune component to frozen shoulder. In other words, the body's immune system may be attacking the tissues of the shoulder, which leads to frozen shoulder symptoms.
Immobility
The American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons states that immobilizing the shoulder for an extended period of time can lead to a frozen shoulder. This occurs because the tissues that surround the shoulder can become stiff if they have not been used for an extended period of time. Immobilization from an injury or recovery from surgery can increase the risk of frozen shoulder. Thus, a patient that is recovering from injury or surgery should be sure to follow his doctor's recommendations, which includes early motion of the shoulder joint. He may prescribe physical therapy to increase the flexibility and strength of the shoulder joint. It is the patient's responsibility to attend all physical therapy sessions to ensure optimum healing and recovery of range of motion.
Other Medical Problems
While causes of frozen shoulder are not completely understood, researchers have associated an increased risk for developing a frozen shoulder with other medical problems. The American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons states that hypothyroidism, hyperthyroidism, Parkinson's disease, heart disease and surgery are correlated with developing a frozen shoulder. Thus, a patient with these diseases should not hesitate to see his doctor if he is noticing pain, stiffness or the loss of motion in his shoulder.
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