From Symptoms to Treatment for Frozen Shoulder: Relieving Shoulder Stiffness Effectively!

Are you suffering from constant Shoulder Pain? Even after showing to different doctors, your shoulder stiffness is not reducing? Or even after trying multiple home remedies to treat shoulder pain, your pain is not going? If yes, then you might be suffering from Frozen Shoulder and must seek immediately seek treatment for frozen shoulder. You don’t have to worry about it, Dr. Preetesh Choudhary, Shoulder Specialist in Indore will help you understand causes, symptoms and treatment for Frozen Shoulder.
What is a Frozen Shoulder?
Frozen Shoulder also called Adhesive Capsulitis, is a condition that leads to pain and stiffness in the shoulder joint. Shoulder is a ball-and-socket joint, which is surrounded by a capsule of connective tissue. This capsule thickens and tightens which does not allow the shoulder to move, restricting its movement. It gradually worsens over time if not paid attention and can take years to fully recover. The exact cause of Frozen Shoulder is never clear but it is commonly associated with some shoulder injuries, prolonged immobility or underlying health condition such as diabetes. The three distinct 3 Stages of Frozen Shoulder are Freezing Stage, Frozen Stage and Thawing Stage.
Common Symptoms of Frozen Shoulder are-
- Constant Pain- One of the most common symptom of Frozen Shoulder is constant pain in the outer shoulder and in the upper arm. This pain worsens over time and it may radiate towards the neck or the upper back.
- Gradual Shoulder Stiffness- Slowly after having constant pain, gradual stiffness may arise. The shoulder might start feeling tight and the range of motion starts declining over a few weeks or months.
- Sleep Disturbance- Many people experience severe shoulder pain after sleeping, making it difficult for them to find a comfortable sleeping position especially on the affected side.
- Compensatory Movements- Since the shoulder doesn’t function properly, people may overuse their neck, back or the other arm more which will lead to secondary pain in these areas.
- Overhead Movements- People suffering from Frozen Shoulder may not be able to do overhead movements such as reaching a high shelf, combing hair or even wearing a seatbelt as it becomes challenging for them.
Treatment for Frozen Shoulder-
Non-Surgical Treatment for Frozen Shoulder-
- Physical Therapy for Frozen Shoulder- Physical Therapy plays a crucial role in gradually restoring shoulder movement. A physical therapist can guide you through specific stretches and strengthening exercises to reduce stiffness and improve mobility in the shoulder.
- Lifestyle Modifications- When you are suffering from Frozen Shoulder then you need to improve your lifestyle in order to improve the condition of your shoulder. Maintaining good posture, using supportive pillows, wearing proper shoulder belts are few basic changes you need to focus on to improve your situation.
- Hydrodilatation- Hydrodilatation also known as Joint Distension Therapy is a minimally invasive procedure where a sterile fluid is injected into the shoulder joint to stretch the capsule. This therapy helps in improving mobility in the patients who haven’t been responding to physical therapy much.
Surgical Treatment for Frozen Shoulder-
- Shoulder Arthroscopy- Shoulder Arthroscopy also known as Capsular Release Surgery is a minimally invasive surgery performed using a small camera (arthroscope) and specialized instruments. The surgeon makes tiny incisions in the shoulder to release the tight capsule, allowing for better movement.
- Shoulder Manipulation Under Anesthesia (MUA)- In this procedure, the patient is put under anesthesia and the surgeon forcefully moves the shoulder to break up adhesions and improve mobility. While it immediately improves the range of motion, the risk of fractures, ligament tears or muscle damage is more and that is why this method is used very less in today’s time.
Conclusion-
Frozen shoulders can be a frustrating and painful condition but with early diagnosis and the right treatment, you can restore mobility and live pain-free. People usually have myths about frozen shoulder– learn the facts in our previous blogs. Whether through physical therapy, pain management or surgical options like shoulder arthroscopy, effective solutions are available. If you are the one who is suffering from any shoulder pain then do not ignore these symptoms, take the first step towards pain free life and book your appointment at MLs Clinic, a renowned Joint Replacement and Sports Injury Clinic where Dr. Preetesh Choudhary treats you with the most advanced technology for the treatment of Frozen Shoulder.