Adhesive capsulitis, commonly known as “frozen shoulder,” is a chronic nonspecific inflammation of the shoulder joint capsule, surrounding ligaments, tendons, and synovial bursae. The condition is also referred to as “fifty shoulder” because it frequently occurs in individuals between the ages of 50 and 60, with a higher prevalence in women.
In traditional Chinese medicine, this condition is often linked to the gradual weakening of the “Liver” and “Kidney” systems in the elderly, as understood in the TCM framework. This decline is thought to lead to a deficiency in the body’s vital energy (Qi) and blood circulation, resulting in inadequate nourishment and support for the muscles.
It’s important to note that the concepts of “Liver” and “Kidney” in TCM do not directly correspond to the physical liver and kidneys as understood in Western medicine, but rather represent broader systemic functions within the body. External injuries or exposure to pathogenic factors like cold, dampness, and wind can lead to blockages in the shoulder meridians, causing blood stasis and muscle spasms, which in turn lead to pain.
Frozen shoulder typically progresses through three stages: the painful phase, the stiff phase, and the recovery phase. Initially, patients may experience mild pain in the shoulder and upper arm, which gradually worsens and is accompanied by stiffness. In addition to pain, movement of the shoulder joint in various directions becomes limited, particularly in abduction, external rotation, and extension, making daily activities like combing hair or dressing challenging.
In treating frozen shoulder, traditional Chinese medicine often employs TuiNa acupressure medical massage, Fire cupping, oral and topical herbal medicines, and acupuncture, sometimes combining these treatments. However, the key to treating frozen shoulder, regardless of the method, lies in active functional training.
During the early stages of frozen shoulder, patients are encouraged to perform movements that increase the range of motion, such as abduction, lifting, internal rotation, and external rotation of the affected limb. During the stiff phase, exercises like internal and external rotations, abduction, and circular motions are recommended.
Additionally, “wall climbing” exercises are highly beneficial. This involves the patient standing sideways next to a wall, marking a height on the wall, and gradually moving their fingers up the wall to perform shoulder abduction and lifting movements, progressively increasing the degree of upper arm abduction each day.
Apart from traditional Chinese medical treatments, active functional training is crucial for recovery from frozen shoulder. This training must be gradual and consistent to be effective.
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