Frozen shoulder, also known as adhesive capsulitis, is a condition characterized by stiffness, pain, and limited range of motion in the shoulder joint. In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), frozen shoulder is often attributed to a disharmony in the flow of Qi and blood in the body.

One of the primary factors that contribute to the development of frozen shoulder in TCM is the concept of Qi stagnation. Qi is the vital energy that flows through the body, and when it becomes stagnant or blocked, it can lead to pain and stiffness in the muscles and joints. This stagnation can be caused by emotional factors such as stress, frustration, or unresolved anger, which can disrupt the smooth flow of Qi in the body and contribute to the development of frozen shoulder.

Another important factor in the development of frozen shoulder in TCM is blood stasis. Blood stasis occurs when the flow of blood in the body becomes sluggish or blocked, leading to pain and inflammation in the affected area. Blood stasis can be caused by a number of factors, including trauma, poor circulation, or underlying health conditions such as diabetes or cardiovascular disease. In the case of frozen shoulder, blood stasis can contribute to the development of adhesions in the joint capsule, leading to stiffness and limited range of motion.

In addition to Qi stagnation and blood stasis, TCM also considers the role of external factors such as cold and dampness in the development of frozen shoulder. Cold and dampness are considered pathogenic factors that can invade the body and disrupt the flow of Qi and blood, leading to pain and stiffness in the joints. External factors such as exposure to cold weather, sitting or sleeping in a drafty room, or wearing damp clothing can all contribute to the development of frozen shoulder in TCM.

Overall, the main cause of frozen shoulder in TCM is a combination of internal imbalances in the flow of Qi and blood, as well as external pathogenic factors such as cold and dampness. By addressing these imbalances through acupuncture, herbal medicine, and lifestyle adjustments, TCM practitioners can help to alleviate pain and stiffness in the shoulder joint and restore the body to a state of balance and harmony.