Can You Have Two Frozen Shoulders at the Same Time?

When it comes to frozen shoulder, also known as adhesive capsulitis, most people are familiar with the condition affecting one shoulder at a time. But what happens if both shoulders become frozen at the same time? Is it possible to have two frozen shoulders simultaneously? And if so, how does that change the approach to treatment and recovery? Let’s dive into this rare but impactful condition.

Before we get into the specifics of having two frozen shoulders, let’s first understand what frozen shoulder is. Frozen shoulder is a condition characterized by stiffness, pain, and limited range of motion in the shoulder joint. It occurs when the capsule of the shoulder joint thickens and tightens, restricting movement. Typically, the condition develops in three phases:

• Freezing Phase: The shoulder becomes increasingly stiff and painful, particularly when trying to move it.

• Frozen Phase: The pain might decrease, but the shoulder remains stiff, and it becomes difficult to use the arm fully.

• Thawing Phase: The stiffness begins to loosen, and mobility is gradually restored.

The exact cause of frozen shoulder is still not completely understood, but it’s believed to occur when the tissues around the shoulder joint (the capsule) become inflamed and scarred. This leads to the thickening and tightening that causes the pain and limited movement. It is most common in individuals between the ages of 40 and 60, and while it affects both men and women, women are more likely to experience it.

Having frozen shoulder in both shoulders at the same time is certainly rare, but it is possible. This condition is called bilateral frozen shoulder. In fact, only about 2% to 5% of people with frozen shoulder develop the condition in both shoulders simultaneously. However, the likelihood increases if you have certain risk factors or underlying conditions.

There are a number of reasons why someone might develop frozen shoulder in both shoulders. Here are the most common contributing factors:

• Diabetes: People with diabetes are at a higher risk for developing frozen shoulder, and the risk is even higher when both shoulders are affected. Studies have shown that 10% to 20% of people with diabetes will develop frozen shoulder, and bilateral frozen shoulder occurs more frequently in those with poorly controlled blood sugar levels.

• Other Medical Conditions: Certain medical conditions, such as thyroid problems, heart disease, and Parkinson’s disease, can increase the likelihood of developing frozen shoulder. Individuals with these conditions may be more prone to the frozen shoulder in both shoulders.

• Age and Gender: Frozen shoulder typically affects people between the ages of 40 and 60. Women, especially those over 50, are more likely to develop the condition.

• Injury or Surgery: If you’ve had surgery or a significant injury on one shoulder, you may be at a higher risk for developing frozen shoulder in the other shoulder. The lack of movement or use in one shoulder can lead to the development of the condition in the opposite shoulder as the body compensates for the lack of mobility.

• Genetics: While the evidence isn’t fully conclusive, some studies suggest that there may be a genetic predisposition to developing frozen shoulder, making it possible for both shoulders to be affected at once.

When both shoulders are affected, the symptoms are typically similar to those seen in a single frozen shoulder, but they can be more intense and debilitating. Symptoms include:

• Pain and Stiffness: The pain might start gradually and get worse over time. It typically affects the outer shoulder area and can extend down the arm.

• Restricted Range of Motion: The most noticeable sign of frozen shoulder is difficulty moving the shoulder, whether it’s raising your arm, reaching behind your back, or doing other daily activities. When both shoulders are affected, this restriction can make even simple tasks extremely difficult.

• Sleep Disturbances: With pain and stiffness in both shoulders, sleeping can become a challenge, particularly when lying on your side.

Having both shoulders frozen at the same time can be incredibly challenging. Daily tasks like dressing, cooking, reaching for objects, or even driving can become difficult or impossible. It can lead to a significant decrease in quality of life, especially if the condition persists for months or even years. The frustration of not being able to use both arms can also take a toll on a person’s mental health, leading to feelings of depression or anxiety.

In severe cases, individuals may require assistance with daily activities, which can add to the emotional and physical burden of the condition.

Treating bilateral frozen shoulder requires a more comprehensive approach since both shoulders are affected. Here’s a breakdown of the most common treatment methods:

• Physical Therapy: One of the most effective treatments for frozen shoulder, especially for bilateral cases, is physical therapy. A skilled physical therapist can guide you through specific exercises that help improve flexibility and strength in the shoulder joints. It’s essential to be consistent with your therapy, as it can take months to see significant improvements.

• Pain Management: Managing pain is crucial, particularly when both shoulders are involved. Over-the-counter pain medications like ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help alleviate some discomfort. For more severe pain, your doctor may recommend corticosteroid injections or even joint injections to reduce inflammation and pain.

• Heat and Cold Therapy: Applying heat or cold to the shoulders can provide temporary relief from pain and stiffness. Cold packs can help reduce inflammation, while heat can relax the muscles and improve circulation.

• Surgical Intervention: If conservative treatments don’t provide relief after a significant amount of time, surgery may be considered. A common surgical option is manipulation under anesthesia, where the doctor moves the shoulder joint while the patient is under anesthesia to break up the scar tissue. In some cases, arthroscopic surgery may be needed to remove the thickened capsule.

• Alternative Therapies: Acupuncture, massage therapy, and stem cell injections are also alternative treatment options that some people with frozen shoulder choose to explore. These therapies may help alleviate pain and improve mobility, though their effectiveness can vary from person to person.

The good news is that even with bilateral frozen shoulder, recovery is possible. The recovery process may take longer compared to having it in one shoulder, but with a consistent treatment plan, most people can regain a significant amount of mobility and functionality. It’s important to manage expectations, as the process can be slow, but persistence and patience will pay off.

For those dealing with both shoulders frozen, the key is to stay active in the recovery process. This means following the prescribed treatment plan, attending physical therapy sessions, and doing the recommended exercises. The more committed you are to the recovery process, the better your chances of regaining full or near-full function.

While having two frozen shoulders at the same time is rare, it is certainly possible. The condition can be caused by factors such as diabetes, thyroid issues, or injury, and it can significantly impact daily life. However, with proper treatment, including physical therapy, pain management, and in some cases surgery, recovery is achievable. If you suspect you have frozen shoulder in one or both shoulders, it’s important to consult with your healthcare provider as soon as possible to get the right treatment and start the healing process.

Remember, consistency is key in managing and recovering from frozen shoulder—so take action, stay committed, and don’t let this condition take control of your life.