The term “frozen shoulder” conjures up all sorts of mental images, but this term refers to an injury that is quite common. A frozen shoulder is a painful problem that results in a lack of mobility of the afflicted shoulder and it can be quite troublesome for many people. It is estimated that at least 2% of the population has to deal with this ailment and many of that segment are between the ages of 40 and 60.

While frozen shoulder can occur as a result of the aging process, it can also be the result of a sports injury. For example, this is a common complaint of pitchers, quarterbacks and even tennis players. It is similar to a rotator cuff problem, but it actually involves the capsule around the joint. Over time, particularly if proper treatment isn’t given, this capsule thickens and hardens to the point where movement is nearly impossible.

The entire process of dealing with a frozen shoulder can take more than two years. Typically, it begins with a dull, aching pain, particularly after strenuous activity. This pain becomes more acute if nothing is done, and in a few months, the shoulder becomes “frozen.” Movement is greatly reduced and the level of pain increases. It can take more than 24 months for the “thawing” process where the capsule reverts to its former state and movement is again possible.

If you have a frozen shoulder as a result of overexertion, or even if it occurred for reasons unknown, there are some steps you can take to help speed up the healing process. First and foremost, the activity that caused the frozen shoulder should be stopped. For example, throwing a football repeatedly is not only going to be incredibly painful, but it may actually make the injury worse.

Physical therapy is generally recommended, but this can be quite painful. It is best to have a professional assist you if your particular case of frozen shoulder is very bad. In some severe cases, your doctor may need to prescribe a surgical procedure to prevent the pain from getting worse.

Certain exercises can be performed to help with the pain and to increase mobility. Shoulder stretching exercises are the most beneficial, but only when they are performed properly. Movements should be slow and the patient must never over stretch. You can bring the affected arm in front of your body holding your elbow with the other hand and slowly stretch out the joint. Other exercises include lying on your back and slowly bringing the affected arm up over your head.

To prevent frozen shoulder, it is essential to properly warm up before attempting any exercise that it is repetitive or focuses largely on the shoulder. In addition to sports players, this can also be a big problem for weight lifters and those that do a lot of pull ups or other exercises that are weight bearing. With proper stretching and the right exercise techniques, this painful condition can be avoided.

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Originally posted 2008-08-25 05:53:25. Republished by Old Post Promoter

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aging process, ailment, all sorts, frozen shoulder, healing process, mental images, overexertion, pain increases, physical therapy, pitchers, population, rotator cuff problem, segment, sports injury, strenuous activity, tennis players, throwing a football