Scapulohumeral Periarthritis vs. Frozen Shoulder: Key Differences Explained

What are scapulohumeral periarthritis and frozen shoulder?

Both scapulohumeral periarthritis and frozen shoulder are conditions that involve pain and stiffness in the shoulder region, but they have important differences.

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1. What is scapulohumeral periarthritis?

Scapulohumeral periarthritis is an inflammatory condition affecting the shoulder joint, particularly the tendons and the surrounding soft tissue. This condition can lead to pain, swelling, and limited range of motion in the shoulder. It often arises from repetitive stress, poor posture, or previous injuries to the shoulder area.

2. What is frozen shoulder?

Frozen shoulder, or adhesive capsulitis, is characterized by stiffness and pain in the shoulder joint due to the thickening and tightening of the capsule around the shoulder. This often results in significant limitation of motion and can occur without a specific injury. The condition typically progresses through three stages: freezing, frozen, and thawing.

3. What are the main differences between the two conditions?

• Cause: Scapulohumeral periarthritis is primarily caused by inflammation and overuse, while frozen shoulder can occur without a clear cause and is linked to the thickening of the shoulder capsule.
• Symptoms: Both conditions lead to pain and stiffness, but in scapulohumeral periarthritis, the pain is often sharper and associated with specific movements, while in frozen shoulder, the stiffness is more pronounced, making it difficult to perform daily activities.
• Range of Motion: In scapulohumeral periarthritis, range of motion can be limited but may improve with rest. In contrast, frozen shoulder results in chronic stiffness that can severely restrict movement, often necessitating intensive therapy.
• Treatment: Treatment for scapulohumeral periarthritis usually focuses on anti-inflammatory medications and physical therapy. For frozen shoulder, treatments might include corticosteroid injections, physical therapy, and in some cases, surgery to release the joint capsule.

4. How can one diagnose these conditions?

Diagnosis of scapulohumeral periarthritis and frozen shoulder typically involves a medical history review, physical examination, and imaging studies. An X-ray or MRI might be conducted to rule out other shoulder issues or confirm the diagnosis.

5. What should I do if I suspect I have one of these conditions?

If you suspect you have scapulohumeral periarthritis or frozen shoulder, it is essential to consult a healthcare professional. Early diagnosis and treatment can help manage symptoms effectively and improve shoulder function.

6. Are there any ways to prevent these conditions?

Preventive measures include maintaining good posture, regularly stretching the shoulder muscles, avoiding repetitive overhead activities, and keeping the shoulder joint strong and flexible through exercise. Additionally, proper warm-up before physical activities can help reduce the risk of injuries that lead to scapulohumeral periarthritis.

7. Can these conditions resolve on their own?

Both scapulohumeral periarthritis and frozen shoulder can improve over time. However, treatment is often necessary to manage pain and restore motion effectively. Ignoring symptoms can lead to prolonged discomfort and may complicate recovery.