Adhesive capsulitis, commonly known as frozen shoulder, is a painful and restrictive condition that can significantly impact one’s daily life. At Pleasant Hill Chiropractic, we believe in providing valuable information to our patients to help them understand and manage various musculoskeletal issues. In this blog post, we will delve into the causes, symptoms, and chiropractic care options for adhesive capsulitis. 

What is Adhesive Capsulitis?

Adhesive capsulitis is a condition characterized by the inflammation and stiffening of the shoulder joint capsule. This can result in pain and a progressive loss of motion in the shoulder. While the exact cause is not always clear, factors such as prolonged immobility, trauma, or underlying medical conditions may contribute to its development.

Signs and Symptoms:

1. Pain and Stiffness: Individuals with adhesive capsulitis often experience pain and a gradual reduction in the shoulder’s range of motion.
2. Difficulty Sleeping: Discomfort and pain may interfere with sleep, especially when lying on the affected side.
3. Progressive Loss of Motion: Over time, the ability to perform everyday activities that involve shoulder movement, such as reaching for items on a high shelf or dressing, becomes challenging.

Risk Factors:

Several factors may increase the risk of developing adhesive capsulitis:

• Age and Gender: The condition is more common in individuals between the ages of 40 and 60, and women are more frequently affected than men.
• Diabetes: People with diabetes have a higher risk of developing adhesive capsulitis.
• Immobilization: Prolonged periods of shoulder immobility, such as after surgery or injury, can contribute to the development of frozen shoulder.

Chiropractic Care for Adhesive Capsulitis:

At Pleasant Hill Chiropractic, we offer holistic and patient-centered care for adhesive capsulitis. Chiropractic interventions aim to improve joint function, reduce pain, and enhance overall well-being. Our approach may include:

1. Joint Mobilization: Gentle, targeted adjustments to the affected shoulder joint can help improve mobility and reduce pain.
2. Soft Tissue Therapy: Techniques such as massage and myofascial release may be used to address tightness in the muscles and surrounding tissues.
3. Therapeutic Exercises: Customized exercises can help restore range of motion and strengthen the muscles supporting the shoulder joint.
4. Patient Education: We empower our patients with knowledge about self-care techniques and lifestyle modifications to manage symptoms and prevent recurrence.

Lifestyle Tips for Frozen Shoulder:

• Heat Therapy: Applying heat to the affected shoulder can help relax muscles and improve flexibility.
• Home Exercises: Performing gentle stretches and range-of-motion exercises at home can complement chiropractic care.
• Posture Awareness: Maintaining good posture can contribute to overall shoulder health. Our chiropractors provide guidance on proper ergonomics and posture.

Conclusion:

Adhesive capsulitis can be a challenging condition, but with the right approach, it is manageable. At Pleasant Hill Chiropractic, we are committed to supporting our patients on their journey to optimal musculoskeletal health. If you or someone you know is experiencing symptoms of adhesive capsulitis, don’t hesitate to contact us for a consultation. Our experienced chiropractors are here to help you regain mobility, reduce pain, and improve your overall quality of life.