Frozen Shoulder: What It Is & How to Treat It
Reflected in the name of this condition, frozen shoulder is an ailment in which motion of the shoulder joint is restricted. The shoulder is surrounded by a capsule of connective tissue that helps hold the joint together, but for those experiencing frozen shoulder, this capsule becomes thickened and tight. Bands of tissue, called adhesions, can also develop within the capsule, further limiting motion in the shoulder.
The cause of frozen shoulder is not fully understood, but certain risk factors, including systemic diseases like diabetes or a period of immobilization, may put you at risk. Shoulder doctors often see patients for the achy, dull pain they experience in the upper arm and outer shoulder that worsens during movement and oftentimes at night.
Frozen shoulder occurs in stages, known as freezing, frozen, and thawing. The freezing stage lasts around 2 to 9 months and includes a gradual onset of pain that worsens over time, restricting range of motion. The frozen stage, lasting 4 to 6 months, is characterized by potentially reduced pain but with stiffness and severely restricted movement. The individual often experiences difficulty performing overhead activities and reaching during this time. In the thawing stage, which lasts anywhere from 6 months to 2 years, the individual gains a gradual improvement in range of motion but may still experience some stiffness.
What Are the Treatment Options for Frozen Shoulder?
An experienced shoulder doctor will diagnose your pain and be able to provide a treatment plan to combat frozen shoulder. Frozen shoulder generally gets better over time, and treatment options include:
- Pain Management: Your shoulder doctor may recommend over-the-counter pain relievers or corticosteroid injections to help relieve the pain and swelling.
- Physical Therapy: There are specific exercises that can help improve the shoulder's range of motion and flexibility. A physical therapist may utilize manual therapy techniques or create a home exercise routine for you to follow.
- Surgery: In severe cases that don't respond to conservative treatment, surgery, including a minimally invasive arthroscopic procedure or manipulation under anesthesia, may be recommended by a shoulder surgeon to release the tightened capsule.
- Home Care Tips: You can help relieve the symptoms of frozen shoulder at home by applying heat or ice to the shoulder, performing gentle exercises recommended by your physical therapist, and avoiding activities that irritate your shoulder.
Frozen shoulder can be a frustrating condition, but with the appropriate treatment plan from an expert shoulder doctor, you can regain shoulder mobility and reduce pain. Early diagnosis and intervention are key for a successful recovery, so schedule an appointment with one of our shoulder doctors if you are experiencing frozen shoulder symptoms. Please call (973) 775-9283 or request an appointment online.