Frozen shoulder, also known as adhesive capsulitis, is a common ailment that can feel like your shoulder joint is trapped in icy chains. It typically affects people in their 50s and 60s, with women feeling its icy grip four times more often than men. The pain starts out sharp and intense, especially at night, and leaves your shoulder stiff in the morning. Diabetes can also make frozen shoulder more likely.

The Villain: Inflammation and Scarring:

Imagine the lining of your shoulder joint getting inflamed and thickened, like scar tissue growing inside. This is what happens in frozen shoulder, making it hard to move your arm.

Three Stages of Thawing:

Frozen shoulder plays out in three acts:

• Freezing: The painful act, with nights being the worst.
• Frozen: Pain eases, but stiffness takes over, restricting movement.
• Thawing: Movement slowly returns, like ice melting in spring.

Melting the Ice:

Painkillers and steroids can offer relief, along with warm compresses and gentle stretches. Keeping your shoulder warm throughout the day and night, even with proper winter clothing, can also help.

Painkillers and Steroids