Are Race, Genetics and BMI a Risk Factor for Frozen Shoulder?

Are Race, Genetics and BMI a Risk Factor for Frozen Shoulder?

Reference:Wang K, et al Risk factors in idiopathic adhesive capsulitis J Shoulder Elbow Surg. 2013 Jul;22(7)

As of 2013 we still do not know the actual cause of most frozen shoulders; aka idiopathic adhesive capsulitis (IAC).

This 2013 Australian study demonstrated that the top 6 risk factors for the development of IAC were diabetes, thyroid disease, a lower body weight, a lower BMI, and a positive family history of IAC.

Surprisingly having parents/grandparents born in the British Isles or being born in the British Isles was another risk factor for AC. Funny, I recall my frozen shoulder patients being of varying race and colour but I must admit I’ve never kept a tab if most were of white British decent.

Personal comment: When I was a new into the PT world I used to feel guilty and responsible if my patient developed a frozen shoulder… it was as if I had failed to prevent it. In hindsight, and now thanks to research, it was never my “fault” that they developed a frozen shoulder.

I can’t be expected to change genetics, race, thyroid issues, diabetes or low BMI!

Posted on: September 26, 2013

Categories: Shoulder