Frozen shoulder, medically termed adhesive capsulitis, is a condition that causes pain and stiffness in the shoulder joint, progressively restricting mobility. It commonly affects individuals between the ages of 40 and 60, especially those with diabetes or prolonged shoulder immobilization. However, younger individuals can also develop this condition due to various underlying causes.
Causes and Symptoms of Frozen Shoulder
Frozen shoulder occurs due to inflammation and thickening of the shoulder capsule, leading to reduced flexibility. Common risk factors include:
✔ Diabetes and metabolic disorders
✔ Shoulder injury or post-surgical immobilization
✔ Autoimmune diseases
✔ Hormonal imbalances
✔ Aging-related changes
Stages of Frozen Shoulder
Frozen shoulder progresses through three distinct stages:
🔹 Freezing Stage – Gradual onset of pain and stiffness, restricting movement.
🔹 Frozen Stage – Pain may reduce, but stiffness increases, severely limiting mobility.
🔹 Thawing Stage – The shoulder gradually regains movement and flexibility.
Ayurvedic Perspective on Frozen Shoulder
In Ayurveda, frozen shoulder resembles Apabahuka, a disorder caused by an imbalance in Vata and Kapha doshas. When these doshas disrupt joint function, it leads to pain, stiffness, and restricted movement. Ayurveda aims to restore balance, reduce inflammation, and enhance mobility through holistic therapies.
Ayurvedic Treatment for Frozen Shoulder
✅ Herbal Remedies
Ayurvedic formulations help pacify aggravated doshas and improve joint function:
✔ Prasarinyadi Kashaya – Relieves pain and enhances movement.
✔ Rasnaeranda Kashaya – Reduces inflammation and stiffness.
✔ Brihat Vata Chintamani Rasa – Strengthens the nervous system and alleviates Vata-related disorders.
✅ Panchakarma Therapy
Ayurvedic detoxification (Panchakarma) is highly beneficial for frozen shoulder:
✔ Nasya Therapy – Medicated oil instilled through the nostrils helps shoulder joint disorders.
✔ External Therapies – Treatments like Upanaha (herbal poultice) and Jambeera Pinda Sweda (warm lemon compress therapy) help reduce inflammation and improve mobility.
✅ Diet and Lifestyle Modifications
✔ Dietary Guidelines:
➤ Consume warm, nourishing foods like cooked vegetables, whole grains, and herbal teas to pacify Vata.
➤ Avoid cold, dry, and processed foods that aggravate Vata.
✔ Lifestyle & Exercise:
➤ Practice gentle stretching and yoga postures like Gomukhasana (Cow Face Pose) and Bhujangasana (Cobra Pose) to enhance flexibility.
➤ Maintain a consistent sleep cycle and reduce stress through meditation and Pranayama (breathing exercises).
Conclusion
Frozen shoulder can interfere with daily life, but timely intervention can prevent long-term complications. Ayurveda offers a natural and holistic approach to managing this condition, combining herbal remedies, Panchakarma therapies, and lifestyle adjustments. For optimal results, a blend of Ayurvedic treatments and physiotherapy can help restore mobility and improve quality of life.