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Frozen shoulder syndrome refers to a condition where the shoulder joints become stiff, leading to intense pain that gradually increases over time. Also called adhesive capsulitis, this painful condition can cause severe discomfort and interfere with the affected person’s day-to-day activities. It can be triggered by sudden bumps to the back or shoulder or by sitting in one position for too long. If someone has a stroke, fracture or a medical treatment which has an impact on the mobility of the shoulder and hands, his condition can get worse. Since this is a chronic problem, one needs to make some lifestyle changes and follow an exercise routine which will help loosen the shoulder joints and keep him more comfortable.
Here are a few tips that will help those affected by this condition:
Exercise plays a very important role in managing this problem. Swing your arm slowly in a circular motion within a range that you are comfortable in. If your shoulder is already hurting, you might find it difficult to do the exercise but gently move your arm so that it helps to make the joints flexible. Do this exercise as many times as you want, as it can be done anytime and anywhere – your home or workplace – depending on your convenience.
When your shoulder gets stiff, it not only becomes painful but it is also difficult to move your body and perform your daily tasks. You can use a hot water bag or place hot pads on the shoulder joints, which will lessen the pain. Some people are more comfortable using cold pads to decrease inflammation.
Along with exercise, stretching is very important. Stand in front of a wall about 3/4th of your arm’s length and using your fingers, move the arm up the wall till you reach the height of your shoulder. Repeat it a few times. You can also lift your arms or roll your shoulders both ways to relieve pressure on the joints.
Therapy for frozen shoulder is very helpful, where a physiotherapist can give you his professional opinion and also show how to do various exercises. A therapist is trained in increasing mobility of the joints and limbs and by attending a few sessions, you will see a noticeable change in your condition.
Besides these tips, you can also opt for acupuncture if you are interested in alternative medicine, take anti-inflammatory and pain pills or steroid injections for more serious cases, after consulting a doctor.
Adhesive capsulitis affects everyone in different ways. Some people get more attacks in the night, while some experience it while sitting. It can affect one’s sleep and cause pain during driving. These patients are usually above 40 years of age and it affects mostly women. The tips mentioned above will help you deal with the painful stage and frozen stage and aid the body to reach the thawing stage soon so that you can gradually move your shoulder normally. By effective pain management, exercise and continued movement of your shoulder, you can lead a normal life in spite of suffering from frozen shoulder syndrome.
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