Frozen shoulder (Adhesive Capsulitis)

Patient Case:  Frozen shoulder (Adhesive Capsulitis)

Frozen shoulder is a common condition causing pain, stiffness and limited range of motion (ROM) in the shoulder joint. It may due to overuse, injury or from other disease such as hormonal imbalance, diabetes and weakened immune system. Long period of inactivity or surgery can increase chances of adhesion and inflammation.

At the beginning, pain is the chief typical symptom and it can get worse at night. Stiffness and restriction build up gradually. Gradually the pain eases but stiffness and restricted ROM becoming worse. Muscles surrounding the shoulder get wasted as time goes by causing the hand to lose its original strength.

70+ year-old male had frozen shoulder for several months. He had sought medical treatment before but was instead advised not to lift his hand high and perform back reach action in order to reduce his pain and discomfort. Hence, he decided to try TCM.

Before treatment

He could not lift his hand straight up and turning his hand backward to reach shoulder blade is not possible. Pain and rigidness stop limited his shoulder ROM.

After treatment

He could lift his hand much higher and reaching for his shoulder is no longer a problem.

We are happy for him, despite his old age, he made a remarkably recovery in a short time. This is due to his right attitude and maintaining a healthy lifestyle and regular exercise. Healthly and strong backgrounds certainly improve his speed of recovery.