What To Know About Right Shoulder Pain and Diabetes

When it comes to symptoms and conditions related to diabetes, frozen shoulder is not normally at the top of the list. Typically one thinks of problems with feet, the circulatory system, eyesight, or slow healing wounds. However, right shoulder pain is a medical problem that can affect anyone, yet it is seen in higher rates of those with diabetes than the rest of the general population. Frozen shoulder refers to a condition where the shoulder feels frozen, as if it cannot move and this immobility is accompanied by severe and even excruciating pain.

This condition is characterized by stiffness and immobility to the point that simple acts such as buttoning a shirt or raising an arm. The medical term is adhesive capsulitis. Although it is not fully understood why those suffering Type 1 or Type 2 Diabetes are more likely to suffer frozen shoulder than the general population, there is a predominant theory involving glucose. The current medical hypothesis is that glucose attaches to the collagen found in the muscles and ligaments that help to bind bones, cartilage and tendons. For those suffering diabetes, the excess of glucose creates and excess of adhesions on the cartilage that are then theorized to affect the tendons, joints, and bones creating the condition associated with right shoulder pain, although it can affect the left side as well.

At first, sufferers of the condition may notice limited mobility and perhaps slight discomfort in the shoulder during normal daily activities or perhaps weekend projects or sporting endeavors such as gardening or golf. Most report that rather quickly the pain increases and the mobility decreases. This is called the freezing period. This period may last for a few days or progress over several months. During this time the pain may move from the rotator cuff of the shoulder down the arm. It is also noteworthy that this pain is experienced as the person tries to move his or her arm, and as others move the arm for them.

Enter the frozen period. During this time the ligaments are truly shortened and the range of motion is severely limited, as the ligaments cannot stretch. Along with the shortening comes scarring from the build up of adhesions. The stiffness and immobility remain, as does the pain, but it is reported to be of a different nature as the inflammation of the freezing period has passed. The frozen period may last several months, the average being four months.

Lastly, there is the thaw. During this time, the tendons and ligaments begin to lengthen and are able to stretch. Mobility and normal daily movement will slowly regain, as pain and discomfort tends to subside. This period may last anywhere from one to nine months.

It becomes evident that right shoulder pain due to frozen shoulder can significantly impact one's life for quite a long period of time. For those who continually are affected by this condition, seeking medical advice and help is the first step. Just because it is related to diabetes does not mean that standard medical treatments cannot be effective. Be sure to address the diabetes when discussing with a trusted doctor as to the various options available to help manage the condition.


In SeguinTX, learn more about right shoulder pain, and treatment options at GRMedCenter.com today.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Alexandra_Kincaid
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