A frozen shoulder is a shoulder joint that has lost a substantial amount of its range of motion in all directions due to scarring around the joint. The range of motion is limited not only when the patient attempts motion, but also when the doctor attempts to move the joint fully while the patient relaxes. A frozen shoulder is also referred to as adhesive capsulitis. However, it is not known exactly what causes a frozen shoulder. It is thought that the lining of the joint becomes inflamed, which causes scar tissue to form. This leaves less room for the humerus or arm bone to move, hence restricting the movement of the joint. So, when treating frozen shoulder, many factors will be taken into consideration, including the following conditions.
1. After surgery or injury.
2. Most often in people 40 to 70 years old.
3. More often in women (especially in postmenopausal women) than in men.
4. Most often in people with chronic diseases.
Frozen shoulder attributed to three causes in TCM
Syndrome of Wind-Cold Invasion
Syndrome of Stagnation of Cold-Damp
Syndrome of Meridian Blockage due to Blood Stasis