Limited Motion in The Shoulder – Causes, Diagnosis, and Treatment

Limited Motion in the Shoulder – Causes, Diagnosis, and Treatment at Emirates Hospitals Group

Limited motion in the shoulder, also known as shoulder stiffness or restricted range of motion, occurs when the shoulder joint is unable to move freely or fully. This condition can significantly impact daily activities, making it difficult to perform tasks like reaching, lifting, or even rotating the arm. The shoulder joint is highly mobile, so any restriction in its motion can be debilitating. Identifying the cause and providing appropriate treatment is crucial to restore function and improve quality of life.

Causes of Limited Motion in the Shoulder

Several factors can lead to limited motion in the shoulder, including:

• Frozen Shoulder (Adhesive Capsulitis): A condition in which the connective tissue surrounding the shoulder joint becomes thickened and stiff, leading to significant restriction in movement.
• Rotator Cuff Injuries: Tears, strains, or inflammation of the muscles and tendons that stabilize the shoulder can limit its ability to move, causing pain and stiffness.
• Arthritis: Both osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis can lead to inflammation, pain, and stiffness in the shoulder joint, reducing its range of motion.
• Shoulder Impingement: Inflammation or damage to the tendons in the shoulder can cause the tendons to pinch when lifting the arm, resulting in pain and limited movement.
• Bursitis: Inflammation of the bursa (fluid-filled sac) in the shoulder joint can cause swelling and pain, limiting shoulder movement.
• Injuries and Trauma: Fractures, dislocations, or soft tissue injuries to the shoulder can result in stiffness and limited motion as the body heals.
• Tendonitis: Inflammation of the tendons in the shoulder joint, often caused by overuse or repetitive motions, can cause pain and restrict movement.
• Nerve Impingement: Compression or irritation of nerves in the neck or shoulder can cause pain and reduced mobility in the shoulder.
• Post-Surgical Stiffness: After shoulder surgery, such as a rotator cuff repair or shoulder replacement, scar tissue can form, limiting the joint’s mobility.

Symptoms of Limited Motion in the Shoulder

Common symptoms associated with limited shoulder motion include:

• Pain or discomfort when trying to move the shoulder.
• Difficulty reaching overhead or behind the back.
• Stiffness in the shoulder joint, particularly in the morning or after periods of inactivity.
• A feeling of tightness or weakness in the shoulder muscles.
• Limited ability to perform daily tasks that involve lifting, carrying, or reaching.
• Swelling or tenderness around the shoulder joint.

Diagnosis of Limited Motion in the Shoulder

Diagnosing the underlying cause of limited shoulder motion involves a comprehensive evaluation by a healthcare professional. Diagnostic methods include:

• Physical Examination: A detailed assessment of the shoulder’s range of motion, muscle strength, and areas of pain or discomfort.
• Medical History: A discussion of any past injuries, surgeries, or health conditions that may contribute to shoulder stiffness.
• X-rays: Imaging tests to check for signs of bone damage, arthritis, or fractures in the shoulder joint.
• MRI or Ultrasound: These imaging techniques provide detailed views of the soft tissues (ligaments, tendons, and muscles) around the shoulder, helping identify injuries or inflammation.
• Arthroscopy: In some cases, a minimally invasive procedure may be performed to directly visualize the joint and assess any damage or inflammation inside the shoulder.
• Nerve Conduction Studies: If nerve impingement is suspected, tests to measure nerve function can help determine if there is compression or irritation.

Treatment for Limited Motion in the Shoulder in Dubai

At Emirates Hospitals Group, our orthopedic specialists provide comprehensive care for individuals with limited shoulder motion. We focus on diagnosing the root cause of your condition and creating a tailored treatment plan to restore your shoulder function and improve your quality of life.

Treatment for limited shoulder motion depends on the underlying cause, severity, and duration of the symptoms. Common treatment options include:

• Physical Therapy: Specialized exercises and stretches are designed to improve flexibility, strengthen the muscles around the shoulder, and restore range of motion.
• Medications: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) or corticosteroid injections can help reduce pain and inflammation in the shoulder joint.
• Rest and Ice: Resting the shoulder and applying ice can reduce swelling and inflammation, providing relief from pain and discomfort.
• Heat Therapy: Applying heat can help relax tight muscles and improve circulation, aiding in recovery and reducing stiffness.
• Joint Mobilization: A trained therapist may use specific techniques to gently manipulate the shoulder joint to improve mobility.
• Steroid Injections: For more severe inflammation or pain, corticosteroid injections can be administered directly into the shoulder joint to reduce swelling and increase motion.
• Surgical Intervention: In cases of significant injury, such as a large rotator cuff tear, or conditions like frozen shoulder that do not respond to conservative treatment, surgery may be necessary. Surgical options may include rotator cuff repair, shoulder arthroscopy, or joint replacement.
• Shoulder Braces: A brace or sling may be used temporarily to provide support and rest the shoulder, especially following surgery or injury.
• Lifestyle Modifications: Adopting proper posture, avoiding repetitive overhead movements, and engaging in activities that strengthen the shoulder muscles can help prevent further stiffness.

Related Treatments

• Acromioclavicular (AC) Joint Injury