Helpful Information on Frozen Shoulder Syndrome

Date Posted : Aug 06, 2010

In : Back Pain, Chronic Pain Relief, Far Infrared Rays, Shoulder Pain

Frozen Shoulder Syndrome or FSS is a debilitating and extremely painful condition affecting the shoulders. It induces harrowing pain and limits arm movement for an indeterminate amount of time, affecting all aspects of life. Understanding FSS can help you manage painful shoulders and prevent the development of more complications.

Here are the basics of Frozen Shoulder Syndrome to help you cope and recover:

1. The medical term for FSS is Adhesive Capsulitis.

2. FSS is caused by too much or too little shoulder activity. Rest is good for your tired muscles to recover but when the shoulder has been inactive for an extended period of time, it is more susceptible to swelling and numbness. Too much undue stress on your shoulder will also make your muscles sore and stiff afterwards. Stretch before doing any exercises or after long hours of inactivity to prevent buildup of tension and muscle strains.

3. FSS symptoms have three phases: the painful stage when extreme pain is felt, the frozen stage when the shoulder joint numbs and the thawing stage where the range of motion gradually improves. How long each stage lasts depends on the extent of damage and the type of intervention you apply. It’s worth your while to find out which methods will get you through these stages quicker and safer.

4. A person with a severe case of FSS has difficulty performing simple tasks like brushing hair, putting on clothes and reaching for high shelves.

5. If left untreated, FSS can lead to persistent pain and stiffness despite therapy.

6. Trauma, injuries and other risk factors can cause FSS. It can also be triggered by unknown causes.

7. Far Infrared Ray (FIR) heat therapy is the most recommended form of FSS relief for its efficacy with no side effects. The penetrating heat reaches deep into strained muscles, and stimulates more blood flow into the area to speed up the body’s healing process.

8. FSS is rare among younger individuals and is more prevalent among people over 40 years of age. Women are at more risk of getting FSS than men.

9. Diabetics are slightly more at risk of getting FSS.

10. Working with a therapist who can provide a set of beneficial exercises is usually the first measure for long term recovery. Exercises can reduce the amount of pain and strengthen the immune system.

If you suffer from chronic shoulder pain, it is best to seek medical advice. But feel free to check out our shoulder wrap and discuss your pain relief options with your doctor.