Frozen shoulder, medically known as adhesive capsulitis, is a condition causing pain and stiffness in the shoulder joint, which progressively limits movement. While experiencing shoulder discomfort can be concerning, it is generally not a direct indication of breast cancer, nor is there a direct causal link between frozen shoulder and breast cancer development. However, certain indirect associations and shared risk factors exist, which warrant understanding.
What is Frozen Shoulder?
Frozen shoulder is a condition where the connective tissue capsule surrounding the shoulder joint thickens, stiffens, and becomes inflamed. This leads to reduced mobility and discomfort in the affected shoulder. Symptoms typically develop gradually over time, often progressing through distinct stages.
The first stage, known as the “freezing” stage, involves increasing pain and a gradual loss of shoulder movement, lasting from two to nine months. The subsequent “frozen” stage sees a reduction in pain, but the shoulder remains very stiff, making daily activities difficult; this stage can persist for two to six months. Finally, during the “thawing” stage, pain lessens, and shoulder movement slowly improves, with recovery potentially taking six months to two years. Risk factors for developing frozen shoulder include age, commonly affecting individuals between 40 and 60, and certain health conditions like diabetes and thyroid disorders. Prolonged immobility of the shoulder, often due to injury or surgery, also increases the likelihood of developing this condition.
What is Breast Cancer?
Breast cancer is a disease characterized by the uncontrolled growth of cells in the breast tissue. It can develop in various parts of the breast, most commonly in the milk ducts or lobules. Recognizing potential signs is important for early detection.
Common signs and symptoms of breast cancer may include a new lump or thickening in the breast or underarm area, changes in the size or shape of the breast, or alterations to the skin such as dimpling, redness, or flaking. Nipple changes, like discharge other than breast milk or the nipple turning inward, can also occur. It is important to note that breast pain alone is usually not a symptom of breast cancer.
The Relationship Between Frozen Shoulder and Breast Cancer
Frozen shoulder is not a typical diagnostic symptom of breast cancer, meaning it does not directly indicate the presence of breast cancer. However, there are indirect ways these two conditions can be connected, primarily through breast cancer treatments. Shoulder pain can, in rare instances, be referred from a breast tumor, but this is uncommon and generally accompanied by other noticeable breast cancer symptoms.
The most significant link arises from complications of breast cancer treatments. Surgical procedures like mastectomy or lumpectomy, radiation therapy, and certain systemic treatments can lead to shoulder stiffness and pain. Damage to nerves, scar tissue formation, and reduced arm mobility following surgery or radiation can directly contribute to decreased shoulder function and the development of frozen shoulder. Approximately 10.3% of individuals undergoing breast cancer surgery may develop frozen shoulder, a rate higher than in the general population.
Some chemotherapy drugs and hormone therapies used in breast cancer treatment can cause joint and muscle pain, including in the shoulders. This pain can contribute to reduced movement and subsequent stiffness. While conditions like diabetes are a risk factor for frozen shoulder, they can also be present in individuals who develop breast cancer, representing a shared general health link rather than a direct causal relationship.
When to Consult a Doctor
Seeking medical advice is always recommended for persistent or concerning symptoms. If you experience ongoing shoulder pain and stiffness that limits your daily activities, especially if it does not improve with rest or home remedies, consult a healthcare provider. This applies to symptoms such as inability to lift your arm, pain that worsens at night, or significant difficulty with routine movements.
For any breast-related concerns, it is important to seek prompt medical attention. This includes discovering a new lump or thickening in the breast or underarm, noticing changes in breast size or shape, or experiencing skin dimpling, redness, or nipple discharge. Even if you have frozen shoulder, remaining vigilant for breast cancer signs and symptoms and discussing any new changes with your doctor promptly is important.