Adhesive capsulitis, commonly known as "frozen shoulder", is a condition that affects a significant number of people, causing them daily discomfort and impairing their quality of life. 

It profoundly affects shoulder mobility and function, crucial factors in many activities of daily living. 

In this article, we'll explore what exactly adhesive capsulitis is, its causes, symptoms and how chiropractic can help alleviate its effects. 

So let's dive into this important subject without delay. 

Understanding adhesive capsulitis

To tackle the complexities of adhesive capsulitis, it's essential to start by understanding its fundamentals. 

Here's an introduction to this disorder, defining its key features and exploring why it can significantly affect shoulder mobility. 👇

Definition of adhesive capsulitis

Adhesive capsulitis is characterized by persistent stiffness and pain in the shoulder region. 

It occurs when the shoulder joint stiffens, leading to a considerable reduction in mobility. 

This condition is often idiopathic, meaning that it can occur without any apparent cause. 

However, factors such as previous injuries, repeated or atypical movement of the joint, certain chronic illnesses such as diabetes, or even hormonal changes may be the cause. 

Adhesive capsulitis can affect anyone, but is most common in people aged 40 to 60.

It should be noted that adhesive capsulitis generally occurs in one or more of the following four stages: the pre-adhesion stage, the adhesion stage, the resolution stage and, finally, the recovery or healing stage. 

Each of these stages is characterized by a unique set of symptoms and requires specific intervention methods.

Shoulder anatomy

Understanding the impact of adhesive capsulitis requires a general understanding of shoulder anatomy. 

The shoulder is made up of three main bones: the scapula, the humerus and the clavicle. 

What makes the shoulder unique is that it is one of the most mobile joints in the human body. 

Dysharmony of these movements is largely responsible for provoking the joint capsule that surrounds the shoulder joint. 

This capsule is made up of flexible, resistant connective tissue that allows a wide range of movements. 

However, in the case of adhesive capsulitis, this capsule tightens and stiffens, limiting shoulder mobility. 

Abnormal stiffness, called adhesions, can also develop in the capsule, making the situation even worse.

The importance of shoulder mobility

Shoulder mobility is essential in our daily lives, as it enables a wide variety of movements, from simply lifting your hand to grab something from a high shelf, to more complex activities such as throwing a ball, swimming or practicing yoga. 

Without proper shoulder mobility, all these actions become uncomfortable, if not impossible. 

In the case of adhesive capsulitis, pain and stiffness in the affected shoulder can even make it difficult to sleep. 

👉 For example, lying on the affected side can cause intense pain. 

Therefore, it's important to understand that this condition is not limited to the shoulder joint itself, but also affects overall quality of life.

In summary, adhesive capsulitis is a complex condition that has a significant impact on shoulder function and quality of life for sufferers, and often the spine is also involved. 

Understanding its origins and effects is the first step towards effective management strategies. 

In the following section, we'll look at the typical symptoms, possible causes and risk factors associated with adhesive capsulitis.

Symptoms and causes of adhesive capsulitis

To better understand adhesive capsulitis, it's crucial to look at its symptoms and underlying causes. 

This section describes the typical clinical manifestations of this condition and explores the factors likely to cause it. 👇

Symptoms of adhesive capsulitis

Adhesive capsulitis can take a variety of forms. 

However, the most common symptoms include reduced shoulder mobility, intense pain in the shoulder joint that can spread to the whole arm, and discomfort during movement. 

This pain can be felt even when your shoulder remains motionless. 

In general, there are three phases associated with this condition. 

✔️ In the first, you'll feel constant, progressive pain. 

✔️ In the second phase, the pain may diminish, but the shoulder becomes increasingly stiff. 

✔️ Finally, in the third phase, also known as the "thaw" phase, the shoulder gradually begins to regain mobility, but this process can take several months.

Probable causes of adhesive capsulitis

Adhesive capsulitis is often associated with prolonged immobilization of the shoulder due to injury, poor biomechanics, surgery or disease. 

Not being able to move the joint leads to stiffness, which in turn can cause inflammation of the tissues surrounding the joint. 

Nevertheless, in some cases, adhesive capsulitis may occur for no apparent reason. 

Women are more prone to this condition, especially those in the post-menopausal period. 

What's more, people with chronic illnesses such as diabetes or heart disease seem more likely to develop adhesive capsulitis.

Risk factors associated with adhesive capsulitis

Several factors can increase your chances of developing adhesive capsulitis. 

In addition to age, gender and pre-existing medical conditions, a sedentary lifestyle, lack of exercise or obesity can all be potential risk factors. 

It's worth noting that keeping your shoulder immobile for long periods can worsen the symptoms of adhesive capsulitis.

How can chiropractic help relieve adhesive capsulitis?

Let's explore how chiropractic can be a valuable resource in the remedy of adhesive capsulitis. 

This section highlights specific chiropractic methods that help reduce pain and restore mobility to the affected shoulder. 👇

The role of chiropractic in the treatment of adhesive capsulitis

Chiropractic is a specialty that focuses on the diagnosis, treatment and prevention of neuro-musculo-skeletal disorders. 

In the case of adhesive capsulitis, chiropractic can play a decisive role in relieving pain and improving shoulder mobility.

Our approach is to look beyond the symptoms and treat the underlying cause of health problems. 

In the case of adhesive capsulitis, we examine not only the affected shoulder, but also your spine, nervous system and other joints to assess how they interact with each other. X-rays, ultrasounds or even magnetic resonance imaging may be ordered by the chiropractor to better understand the problem. Calcifications, torn tendons and ligaments, osteoarthritis or bone formation making the shoulder prone to internal irritation may be present.

An assessment of the muscles surrounding the shoulder will be necessary, and a strategic plan for restoring this muscular balance will be drawn up.

If necessary, we can advise you on appropriate exercise and nutrition to help manage your condition.

Specific chiropractic techniques for adhesive capsulitis

In the specific case of adhesive capsulitis, several chiropractic techniques can be used. 

One of the most common is chiropractic manipulation, also known as chiropractic adjustment. 

This technique involves applying controlled force to the shoulder joint, which can help reduce pain and improve mobility by loosening adhesions and joint stiffness.

Manual therapy techniques such as stretching and joint mobilization can also be beneficial. 

These techniques improve blood flow to damaged tissue, reducing inflammation and aiding healing. In addition, restoring balance to the musculature not only helps to heal and maintain a healthy shoulder.

It's important to note that every patient is unique, so the techniques used will vary according to each individual's specific needs. 

It's also crucial to understand that a chiropractic care program is generally designed to work over the long term, not as an instant fix. 

Patience and regularity are therefore essential.

Benefits and prevention

This section explores the benefits of chiropractic care for adhesive capsulitis and highlights how preventive approaches can help maintain optimal joint health. 

Let's find out together how these practices can improve your quality of life and prevent recurrences of this painful condition. 👇

The benefits of chiropractic treatment for adhesive capsulitis

Chiropractic treatment offers a number of advantages for the relief of adhesive capsulitis.

It helps to relieve pain, improve shoulder mobility and speed up the healing process.

With personalized treatment, you can return to your daily activities with confidence and without pain.

Chiropractic and the prevention of adhesive capsulitis

Chiropractic plays a preventive role in adhesive capsulitis.

With regular chiropractic care, you can improve shoulder function, prevent inflammation and maintain good joint health.

What's more, your chiropractor can suggest exercises you can do at home to strengthen your shoulder muscles and improve your posture. 

Other complementary methods for managing adhesive capsulitis

In addition to chiropractic treatment, other complementary methods can help manage Adhesive Capsulitis.

This can include physiotherapy, therapeutic massage and acupuncture.

Your chiropractor will be able to advise you on the most suitable methods for you.

Make an appointment with Chiro Ste-Rose

Regular follow-up and prior consultation with a chiropractor are essential when suffering from adhesive capsulitis.

Your chiropractor can assess your progress, adjust your treatment plan if necessary and answer any questions you may have about your joint health. 

It is therefore very important not to neglect these follow-up appointments.

Adhesive capsulitis can be a real burden, but there are solutions to help you regain good joint health. 

At Clinique Chiro Ste-Rose, our team is ready to help you with chiropractic treatment tailored to your needs. 

Don't wait any longer, make an appointment with one of our professionals to start your path to relief and healing. 

Click here to book an appointment today at Chiro Ste-Rose. 🖥️