TREATMENT

Frozen shoulder, also known as adhesive

capsulitis, is a condition characterized by
stiffness, pain, and limited range of motion
in the shoulder joint. The primary goal of
frozen shoulder treatment is to relieve
pain and restore shoulder mobility.
Treatment options may include:
• Physical Therapy: Physical therapy plays a crucial
role in treating frozen shoulder. A physical
therapist can guide you through exercises and
stretches that help improve shoulder flexibility
and reduce pain. These exercises often focus on
gradually increasing the range of motion of the
shoulder joint.

• Pain Relief: To manage pain associated with

frozen shoulder, your doctor may recommend
over-the-counter nonsteroidal anti-
inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen
or prescribe stronger pain medications if
necessary.
• Steroid Injections: Corticosteroid • Hydrodilatation: This procedure involves
injecting a sterile fluid into the shoulder joint
injections can help reduce to expand and stretch the capsule. This can
inflammation and relieve pain in the help improve range of motion and reduce
pain. Hydrodilatation is often performed
shoulder joint. These injections are under imaging guidance, such as ultrasound
typically administered directly into the or fluoroscopy.
joint by a medical professional.
• Manipulation Under Anesthesia (MUA): In some
cases, if other treatments have not been successful,
MUA may be considered. It involves the patient
being put under anesthesia while a healthcare
provider manipulates the shoulder to break up
adhesions and scar tissue, thereby improving
mobility.

• Surgical Intervention: In rare cases where other

treatments have failed, surgery may be an option.
Surgical procedures for frozen shoulder include
arthroscopic release, where the tight capsule is cut
and released using minimally invasive techniques.
• It is important to consult with a healthcare
professional or an orthopedic specialist who can
provide an accurate diagnosis and develop an
appropriate treatment plan tailored to your specific
condition and needs. They can guide you in choosing
the most suitable treatment option for your frozen
shoulder.

This Photo by Unknown author is licensed under CC BY.

Outcome of Frozen Shoulder
• Frozen shoulder, also known as adhesive capsulitis, is a condition
characterized by stiffness, pain, and limited range of motion in the
shoulder joint. The outcomes of frozen shoulder can vary depending
on several factors, including the severity of the condition, the
individual's response to treatment, and the management approach
taken. Here are some possible outcomes:
• Spontaneous Resolution: In some cases,
frozen shoulder may resolve on its own
over time, although this can take several
months to a couple of years. Gradual
improvement in pain and range of
motion is observed as the shoulder
gradually "thaws" and returns to normal
function.

• Persistent Stiffness: For some individuals,

the stiffness and limited range of motion
associated with frozen shoulder may
persist even after the condition has
resolved. This can lead to ongoing
functional limitations, difficulty with
activities of daily living, and reduced
quality of life.
• Improved Function with Conservative Treatment: Physical therapy
and conservative management approaches, such as exercises,
stretching, and anti-inflammatory medications, are often the first-line
treatment for frozen shoulder. With appropriate and consistent
rehabilitation, many individuals experience significant improvement in
pain and range of motion.

• Recurrence: While the majority of individuals experience significant

improvement with treatment, there is a risk of recurrence of frozen
shoulder. Some people may develop the condition again in the same
shoulder or the opposite shoulder.
Surgical Intervention:
• : Insevere cases where conservative measures fail to
provide relief, surgical intervention may be
considered. Surgical options include manipulation
under anesthesia (MUA), where the physician
forcefully moves the shoulder to break up adhesions,
and arthroscopic release, where the surgeon cuts
through the tight tissues surrounding the shoulder
joint. Surgery can provide relief and restore range of
motion in many cases.