Frozen shoulder, also known as adhesive capsulitis, is a condition that affects the shoulder joint, leading to pain and stiffness. There are typically four stages involved in the progression of frozen shoulder.

Stage 1: Pre-freezing stage
During this initial stage, patients may experience mild pain in the shoulder that worsens with movement. This pain is usually diffuse and may be more noticeable at night. Range of motion in the shoulder may be slightly restricted, but the symptoms are generally tolerable.

From a Traditional Chinese Medicine perspective, this stage may be related to an underlying imbalance of qi and blood circulation in the affected meridians, such as the Small Intestine, Triple Burner, and Large Intestine meridians. Stagnation of qi and blood can lead to pain and stiffness in the shoulder joint.

Stage 2: Freezing stage
In this stage, the pain in the shoulder becomes more severe, and stiffness increases. Patients may find it difficult to perform daily activities that require use of the shoulder joint, such as reaching behind the back or overhead. The shoulder may also become inflamed and swollen.

In TCM theory, this stage may be associated with the accumulation of pathogenic factors, such as dampness and cold, in the affected meridians. These factors obstruct the flow of qi and blood, leading to increased pain and stiffness in the shoulder joint.

Stage 3: Frozen stage
At this point, the shoulder becomes significantly stiff, with limited range of motion in all directions. The pain may decrease, but the stiffness makes it difficult for patients to move their shoulder without discomfort. This stage can greatly impact daily activities and quality of life.

From a TCM perspective, the accumulation of pathogenic factors in the shoulder joint has led to a blockage of qi and blood, resulting in the manifestation of frozen shoulder symptoms. Treatment at this stage should focus on removing the obstruction and promoting the flow of qi and blood in the affected meridians.

Stage 4: Thawing stage
In the final stage of frozen shoulder, patients may experience a gradual improvement in symptoms. The stiffness in the shoulder begins to decrease, and range of motion improves over time. Pain may also continue to diminish as the shoulder joint becomes more mobile.

From a TCM perspective, the thawing stage indicates that the flow of qi and blood has been restored in the affected meridians, allowing the shoulder joint to regain its normal function. Continued treatment with acupuncture, herbal medicine, and other TCM modalities can help support the healing process and prevent recurrence of frozen shoulder.

In summary, frozen shoulder progresses through four stages, from mild pain and stiffness to severe restriction of movement, before gradually improving in the thawing stage. Traditional Chinese Medicine offers a holistic approach to treating frozen shoulder by addressing the underlying imbalances in the body that contribute to this condition. By restoring the flow of qi and blood in the affected meridians, TCM can alleviate pain, reduce stiffness, and promote recovery in patients with frozen shoulder.