Medical Dictionary: Adhesive Capsulitis

Adhesive Capsulitis: As the name implies, movement of the shoulder is severely restricted in people with a "frozen shoulder." This condition, which doctors call adhesive capsulitis, is frequently caused by injury that leads to lack of use due to pain. Rheumatic disease progression and recent shoulder surgery can also cause frozen shoulder. Intermittent periods of use may cause inflammation. Adhesions (abnormal bands of tissue) grow between the joint surfaces, restricting motion. There is also a lack of synovial fluid, which normally lubricates the gap between the arm bone and socket to help the shoulder joint move. It is this restricted space between the capsule and ball of the humerus that distinguishes adhesive capsulitis from a less complicated painful, stiff shoulder.¹

More information on medical condition: Frozen Shoulder:

• Introduction: Frozen Shoulder
• Basic Summary for Frozen Shoulder
• Causes of Frozen Shoulder
• Risk Factors for Frozen Shoulder
• Symptoms of Frozen Shoulder
• Diagnostic Tests for Frozen Shoulder
• Treatments for Frozen Shoulder

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