Cervical Disc Herniation Presenting Clinically as Frozen Shoulder: Is There an Association?
Neha Mishra, Krishna Nigam, Chandra Shekhar Singh, Manish SinghBackground and Aims:
Frozen shoulder (adhesive capsulitis) and cervical radiculopathy due to prolapsed intervertebral disc (PIVD) often present with overlapping symptoms, such as shoulder pain, stiffness, and restricted movements. This overlap may result in misdiagnosis and suboptimal treatment. The present study aimed to evaluate the association between cervical PIVD and frozen shoulder using clinical, functional, and radiological parameters.
Materials and Methods:
This prospective observational study included 100 patients aged 18–60 years presenting with shoulder pain and/or restricted range of motion (ROM). All patients underwent a detailed clinical evaluation, Shoulder Pain and Disability Index (SPADI) scoring, assessment of cervical and shoulder ROM using a goniometer, and magnetic resonance imaging of the cervical spine and shoulder joint. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and the Chi-square test.
Results:
The mean age of the patients was 47.06 ± 10.76 years, with a male predominance (53%). Cervical disc herniation was detected in 81% of patients, most commonly at the C5–C6 level (51%). Higher SPADI scores and greater restriction of shoulder movements were significantly associated with cervical nerve root involvement, particularly at the C6 level (
Conclusion:
Cervical disc pathology, especially at the C5–C6 level, is significantly associated with clinical features of frozen shoulder. Evaluation of the cervical spine should be considered in patients presenting with shoulder pain and stiffness to ensure accurate diagnosis and comprehensive management.