What causes Frozen Shoulder?

The exact cause of frozen shoulder isn’t always clear, but it typically arises due to inflammation, immobilization or injury. Common causes and contributing factors include:

• Post-surgical or post-injury immobility
• Diabetes or thyroid disorders, which increase the risk
• Rotator cuff injuries or tendinitis
• Prolonged inactivity of the shoulder joint
• Age and hormonal changes, particularly in women over 40

It may also occur without any identifiable trigger, especially in people with a history of autoimmune or inflammatory conditions.

What are the symptoms of Frozen Shoulder?

Frozen shoulder progresses in three stages, each with distinct symptoms:

• Freezing Stage: Increasing pain and gradual loss of movement
• Frozen Stage: Pain may reduce, but stiffness persists
• Thawing Stage: Gradual return of movement

General symptoms include:

• Persistent shoulder pain, especially at night
• Inability to lift the arm overhead or rotate it
• Muscle tightness and joint stiffness
• Pain that worsens with inactivity or sudden movement

How is Frozen Shoulder diagnosed?

Frozen shoulder is diagnosed through:

• Clinical examination – A physical assessment of shoulder mobility and pain
• Range of motion tests – To evaluate both active and passive movements
• Imaging tests – X-rays or MRI may be used to rule out other conditions like arthritis or rotator cuff tears

Diagnosis helps differentiate frozen shoulders from other shoulder disorders such as impingement syndrome or bursitis.

What are the modern treatments for Frozen Shoulder?

Treatment typically focuses on reducing pain, restoring mobility and improving function. Options may include:

• Anti-inflammatory medications to relieve pain
• Physiotherapy and guided stretching exercises
• Hot or cold compresses to ease discomfort
• Corticosteroid injections for short-term relief
• Shoulder joint manipulation under anesthesia in severe cases
• Arthroscopic surgery as a last resort

What lifestyle changes can help manage Frozen Shoulder?

Managing frozen shoulder requires a blend of physical care and long-term lifestyle adjustments:

• Stay active, but avoid overexerting the shoulder
• Practice daily shoulder mobility exercises
• Apply warm compresses before stretching to loosen tissues
• Use proper posture while working or sitting
• Maintain blood sugar levels, especially for diabetic patients
• Avoid repetitive strain or trauma to the shoulder joint

Is there an ayurvedic treatment for Frozen Shoulder?

Yes, Ayurveda offers a natural, holistic approach to managing frozen shoulders by addressing the underlying imbalance—primarily of the Vata dosha, which governs movement and joint function.

Ayurvedic Treatments for Frozen Shoulder:

• Abhyanga (Therapeutic Oil Massage) - Warm, medicated oils like Mahanarayan or Dhanwantharam are used to relieve stiffness, improve blood flow, and reduce Vata aggravation.
• Kizhi (Herbal Poultice Therapy) - Warm herbal pouches are applied to the shoulder to ease pain and promote muscle flexibility.
• Pizhichil - A combination of heat and medicated oil therapy that deeply nourishes joints and reduces inflammation.
• Basti (Medicated Enema) - Used to balance Vata internally and detoxify the system, especially in chronic cases.
• Nasya (Nasal Therapy) - Administering herbal oils through the nasal passage to clear channels and support the nervous system.
• Herbal Medicines - Internal formulations like Rasna Guggulu, Ashwagandha, Shallaki and Dashamoola support joint health, reduce inflammation and strengthen connective tissues.
• Dietary recommendations - A Vata-pacifying diet of warm, oily and nourishing foods is encouraged, while cold, dry and raw foods should be avoided.