Shoulder pain affects mobility, making daily activities challenging. Distinguishing between frozen shoulder and rotator cuff injury allows for appropriate treatment. Symptoms may overlap, but each condition requires different approaches for recovery. Seeking advice from an orthopaedic shoulder specialist ensures proper diagnosis and management.
Understanding Frozen Shoulder
Frozen shoulder, medically termed adhesive capsulitis, results from stiffness and pain in the shoulder joint. The condition develops gradually, progressing through three stages: freezing, frozen, and thawing. Pain intensifies initially before movement becomes increasingly restricted. Over time, mobility improves but may take months or even years.
Inflammation in the shoulder capsule causes thickening and tightening, limiting joint movement. Patients experience a dull, aching pain that worsens with movement or at night. Unlike rotator cuff injuries, frozen shoulder does not result from a specific trauma but rather prolonged immobility, post-surgery effects, or underlying conditions such as diabetes. Consulting a shoulder pain specialist in Singapore helps determine suitable treatment options, including physical therapy, medication, or minimally invasive procedures.
Identifying Rotator Cuff Injury
Rotator cuff injuries involve damage to the group of muscles and tendons stabilising the shoulder joint. Tears occur due to acute trauma or repetitive strain, leading to pain and weakness. Unlike a frozen shoulder, which limits movement progressively, rotator cuff injuries cause immediate discomfort, often with sharp pain when lifting or rotating the arm.
Symptoms vary based on severity. Partial tears allow some movement with discomfort, while complete tears significantly restrict function. Overuse, heavy lifting, and ageing contribute to rotator cuff injuries. Delayed treatment may lead to worsening symptoms, making early consultation with an orthopaedic shoulder specialist essential.
Key Differences in Symptoms
Distinguishing a frozen shoulder from a rotator cuff injury requires recognising symptom patterns. Frozen shoulder progresses in stages, causing stiffness and gradual mobility loss. Pain remains constant, worsening at night or during extended periods of inactivity.
Rotator cuff injuries cause immediate pain with specific movements, particularly lifting or reaching overhead. Weakness often accompanies the condition, making daily tasks difficult. Unlike frozen shoulder, pain intensity varies based on activity, with some movements remaining unaffected. Diagnosing symptoms correctly prevents mismanagement and prolonged discomfort.
Diagnosis and Medical Evaluation
Orthopaedic specialists assess shoulder conditions through physical examinations and imaging tests. Frozen shoulder diagnosis involves evaluating movement restrictions, while rotator cuff injuries require strength assessments and imaging such as MRI or ultrasound to detect tendon damage.
Early diagnosis improves treatment outcomes. A shoulder pain specialist in Singapore determines appropriate management, preventing long-term complications. Seeking medical attention promptly prevents worsening conditions, enabling faster recovery.
Treatment Approaches
Managing a frozen shoulder involves reducing inflammation and restoring movement. Physiotherapy remains the primary treatment, focusing on stretching exercises to improve flexibility. Pain management includes medication or corticosteroid injections for severe cases. In rare instances, surgical intervention becomes necessary to release the tightened capsule.
Rotator cuff injuries require tailored treatment based on severity. Mild cases benefit from rest, physiotherapy, and anti-inflammatory medication. Severe tears may require surgical repair to restore function. Delayed treatment increases the risk of permanent shoulder weakness, reinforcing the importance of consulting an orthopaedic shoulder specialist.
Preventing Shoulder Injuries
Maintaining shoulder mobility reduces the risk of a frozen shoulder. Regular stretching exercises, especially after prolonged inactivity, help maintain flexibility. Managing underlying conditions like diabetes minimises susceptibility.
Preventing rotator cuff injuries involves strengthening shoulder muscles and avoiding repetitive strain. Proper lifting techniques and adequate rest between strenuous activities reduce injury risks. Consulting a shoulder pain specialist in Singapore ensures effective preventive measures and early intervention when necessary.
When to Seek Medical Attention
Persistent shoulder pain, stiffness, or weakness warrants professional evaluation. Frozen shoulder symptoms lasting several weeks or worsening over time require an assessment to determine the appropriate treatment. Sudden, sharp pain or limited arm function may indicate rotator cuff injury, necessitating immediate attention.
Ignoring symptoms leads to complications, prolonging recovery. Early diagnosis facilitates effective treatment, restoring shoulder function efficiently.
Recognising differences between frozen shoulder and rotator cuff injury ensures timely treatment. Consulting Dr Bryan Tan, an orthopaedic shoulder specialist in Singapore, provides expert guidance for proper diagnosis and effective management. Book an appointment today for comprehensive shoulder care.
