One of the challenges of middle age is dealing with frozen shoulder, a condition that can last for over a year and often appears without warning. Studies show that 2% to 5% of people will experience it at some point in their lives.1 It typically affects women between the ages of 40 and 60. Let’s dive deeper into what frozen shoulder is and how it affects those who experience it.
Stages of a Frozen Shoulder: What to Expect
Frozen shoulder, or adhesive capsulitis, is a condition that causes stiffness, pain, and reduced range of motion in the shoulder. It typically progresses in three stages: freezing, frozen, and thawing. During the freezing stage, pain increases and movement becomes more limited. In the frozen stage, pain may decrease, but the shoulder remains stiff and difficult to move. Finally, shoulder mobility slowly improves in the thawing stage, but full recovery can take months or even years.
Why Does Frozen Shoulder Affect Midlife Women?
While the exact cause of frozen shoulder is unclear, certain factors make midlife women more susceptible. One significant factor is hormonal changes related to menopause. As estrogen levels decline, bones and muscles may weaken, increasing the likelihood of joint issues like frozen shoulder. Additionally, conditions like hypertension,2 diabetes, thyroid problems, and autoimmune diseases are known to raise the risk of developing this condition.
Treatment Options for Frozen Shoulder
Treatment for frozen shoulder typically focuses on reducing pain and restoring range of motion. Physical therapy is often recommended to help stretch and strengthen the shoulder. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can relieve pain, while corticosteroid injections may help reduce inflammation. In severe cases, surgery may be necessary to release the tight joint capsule. Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) may hold potential for helping middle-aged women with frozen shoulder, but its role is not yet fully established and it's important to consult with a healthcare provider to weigh the potential benefits and risks based on your individual health profile.
Prevention is Key: Keep Your Shoulders Moving in Midlife
While there’s no guaranteed way to prevent frozen shoulder, certain lifestyle habits may help manage the risk. Maintaining good shoulder mobility through regular exercise, stretching, and staying active can be beneficial. Early intervention is crucial—if you notice stiffness or discomfort in your shoulder, seeking medical advice early can help manage symptoms before they worsen.
If you’re struggling with shoulder pain or stiffness that’s affecting your daily life, book an appointment with Dr. DiGiulio for a personalized treatment plan to restore your shoulder’s mobility and get you back to doing the things you love.
AUTHOR: Milan M. DiGiulio, M.D. offers comprehensive Orthopaedic care for you and your entire family, specializing in Sports Medicine and Arthroscopic surgery of the shoulder and knee. Dr. DiGiulio performs over 200 arthroscopic shoulder and knee surgeries each year, using the most advanced surgical technology. Dr. DiGiulio is an advocate of non-invasive, non-surgical treatment options such as Physical Therapy and Orthobiologics.
