Adhesive Capsulitis ("Frozen Shoulder") & Diabetes

by: Lauren Williamson

Adhesive capsulitis, also known as "frozen shoulder" is a condition where the shoulder joint gradually loses mobility over a period of time, until the joint becomes immobile or "frozen." It is often very painful at first. Eventually the condition can reverse itself but it can take 2 or 3 years for that to happen. Adhesive capsulitis is more prevalent in people who have diabetes.

Often the first symptom is pain when moving the arm and shoulder. Eventually there is a gradual loss of range of motion in one or both shoulders.

The shoulder joint capsule actually adheres (or sticks) to the head of the humerus bone. The humerus is the long bone that extends from your shoulder to your elbow. The joint capsule is a protective sleeve of connective tissue that surrounds the joint.

Diabetes & Frozen Shoulder:

According to the National Institute of Health (NIH), people with diabetes have an increased risk of developing adhesive capsulitis. Excess glucose can adhere to the cells, damaging the connective tissue which makes up the joints. Other conditions that can put you at risk include autoimmune or endocrine disorders, open heart surgery or upper spine disc diseases.

The stages/progression of adhesive capsulitis includes:

·                        Pain in one or both shoulders

·                        Inability to fully move shoulder joint through it’s full range of motion

·                        Gradual improvement of joint mobility. Usually adhesive capsulitis resolves on its own within 1 to 3 years.

Treatment methods include:

·                        NSAIDS – non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs such as aspirin or ibuprofen

·                        Injected corticosteroids into affected shoulder joints

·                        Physical therapy e.g. Biokinetics

·                        Surgery is sometimes used to free the joint

Since people with diabetes are at higher risk of adhesive capsulitis, they can help prevent the condition by making sure that blood glucose levels are as close to normal as possible. Regular exercise provides motion for the shoulder joints and keeps the joints strong and flexible.