Frozen Shoulder Treatment
Frozen shoulder is a painful and limiting condition that can affect daily life in unexpected ways. Simple activities like reaching for a shelf, wearing clothes, or even combing your hair can feel impossible. Many people struggle in silence, believing the stiffness and pain will pass on their own.
This blog explains what frozen shoulder is, why it happens, and the treatment options that can help you regain mobility. We’ll explore symptoms, diagnosis, exercises, medical treatments, and when to consider surgery. By the end, you’ll have a clear picture of how to move from pain to freedom of movement.
Understanding Frozen Shoulder
Frozen shoulder, also called adhesive capsulitis, occurs when the shoulder joint capsule thickens and tightens. This makes movement painful and limited.
- It usually develops slowly in stages.
- The condition can last for months or even years if untreated.
- People between 40 and 60 are most commonly affected.
- Women and individuals with diabetes face a higher risk.
Frozen shoulder does not appear suddenly. It follows a gradual pattern, making it important to seek care early.
Stages of Frozen Shoulder
The condition has three main stages. Each stage has its own challenges:
- Freezing Stage
- Pain starts slowly and worsens over time.
- Shoulder movement becomes increasingly restricted.
- This stage can last 6–9 months.
- Frozen Stage
- Pain may reduce, but stiffness increases.
- Everyday tasks like lifting or rotating the arm become difficult.
- This stage usually lasts 4–6 months.
- Thawing Stage
- Movement begins to improve gradually.
- Strength and range of motion slowly return.
- Recovery can take 6 months to 2 years.
Knowing these stages helps patients and doctors plan treatment effectively.
Causes and Risk Factors
The exact cause is not always clear. But several factors increase the risk:
- Diabetes: Commonly linked with frozen shoulder.
- Previous shoulder injury or surgery: Immobilization can lead to stiffness.
- Other medical conditions: Thyroid disorders, heart disease, or Parkinson’s disease.
- Age and gender: Middle-aged adults, especially women, are more prone.
Frozen shoulder is not always preventable, but early treatment can stop it from worsening.
Diagnosis of Frozen Shoulder
Doctors diagnose frozen shoulder with a combination of:
- Medical history: Understanding pain patterns and duration.
- Physical examination: Checking shoulder movement in different directions.
- Imaging tests: X-rays or MRI to rule out arthritis, rotator cuff tears, or other issues.
A clear diagnosis ensures the right treatment plan is chosen.
Non-Surgical Treatments
Most patients respond well to non-surgical care. Common options include:
1. Medications
- Pain relievers like paracetamol or NSAIDs reduce discomfort.
- Corticosteroid injections may help in severe pain cases.
2. Physical Therapy
- Gentle stretching and strengthening exercises are the backbone of treatment.
- Exercises like pendulum swings, towel stretches, and wall climbs improve flexibility.
- Regular physiotherapy sessions ensure progress is monitored.
3. Heat and Cold Therapy
- Applying heat relaxes muscles and improves blood flow.
- Cold packs help reduce inflammation after exercise.
4. Lifestyle Adjustments
- Avoid activities that strain the shoulder.
- Focus on posture and ergonomics during work.
Non-surgical care requires consistency. Many patients improve significantly within a few months.
Surgical and Advanced Treatments
When non-surgical treatments fail, surgical methods may be considered.
1. Hydrodilatation
- Sterile fluid is injected into the joint capsule.
- This expands the capsule and reduces stiffness.
2. Manipulation Under Anesthesia (MUA)
- Performed when the patient is under anesthesia.
- The shoulder is moved to break adhesions and improve motion.
3. Arthroscopic Surgery
- Minimally invasive surgery using small instruments.
- Tight tissues are released to restore shoulder movement.
- Recovery is quicker compared to open surgery.
Surgery is usually the last option and considered only when conservative treatment does not work.
Exercises for Frozen Shoulder
Regular exercises are key to recovery. Some effective ones include:
- Pendulum Exercise: Bend forward and let the arm swing in small circles.
- Towel Stretch: Hold a towel behind your back with both hands and stretch gently.
- Cross-Body Stretch: Pull the affected arm across the chest for a gentle stretch.
- Finger Walk: Walk your fingers up the wall to improve upward movement.
These exercises should be done slowly and without forcing the joint. A physiotherapist can guide you with the right intensity.
Living with Frozen Shoulder
Frozen shoulder can be frustrating, but the right approach can ease the journey.
- Stay consistent with therapy.
- Track progress and celebrate small improvements.
- Maintain a healthy lifestyle to manage conditions like diabetes.
- Seek medical help if pain worsens or mobility reduces.
The condition is treatable, and most people regain full function with time and care.
Doctor Introduction
Dr. Chintan Vinod Desai is a consulting Shoulder Surgeon in Mumbai, practicing in Tardeo, Parel, Dadar, Mumbai Central, Lalbaug, Santacruz, and Mulund. He has extensive experience in treating shoulder problems using the latest and advanced techniques.
His expertise covers shoulder conditions such as instability, frozen shoulder, impingement, rotator cuff tears, shoulder arthritis, and calcific tendonitis. With a focus on patient care and precision surgery, Dr. Desai is trusted by many patients seeking relief from shoulder disorders.
FAQs
1. How long does frozen shoulder take to heal?
Recovery can take 1–3 years, but treatment speeds up the process and reduces pain.
2. Can frozen shoulder return after treatment?
Yes, but the chances are low if you maintain exercises and manage risk factors like diabetes.
3. Is surgery always needed for frozen shoulder?
No, most patients recover with medication, physiotherapy, and injections. Surgery is for resistant cases.
4. What is the fastest way to improve frozen shoulder?
Consistent physiotherapy combined with pain management offers the quickest recovery.
5. Can frozen shoulder be prevented?
Not always, but staying active and avoiding long periods of shoulder immobility lowers the risk.
Conclusion
Frozen shoulder is painful, but it does not have to control your life. Early diagnosis, regular physiotherapy, and lifestyle adjustments can bring lasting relief. For those who need it, advanced treatments and surgery offer effective solutions.
If you are struggling with shoulder stiffness or pain, consult an expert like Dr. Chintan Vinod Desai. With the right care, you can move from pain to freedom of movement and regain control of your daily life.
