If you are experiencing pain, stiffness, and loss of motion in your shoulder, you’re not alone. Also known as adhesive capsulitis, frozen shoulder is a painful condition that primarily affects adults between the ages of 40 and 65. Connective tissues called the shoulder capsule surround the three bones of the shoulder, working hard each day to hold the various parts of the joint together. When inflammation occurs, scarring can develop in the capsule tissue, resulting in adhesions. As a result, the folds of the capsule become tighter and restrict movement, causing discomfort in the joint. This leads to decreased use of the shoulder due to pain and further thickening of the capsule until it becomes difficult to move, giving it its “frozen” sensation.
Proper treatment of frozen shoulder is crucial for your overall orthopaedic health and comfort. At OrthoGeorgia, our total joint specialists have years of experience treating patients with various shoulder and upper extremity conditions, including frozen shoulder. Learn more about adhesive capsulitis below, and contact your nearest OrthoGeorgia clinic location to get the expert care you deserve.
What are the Symptoms of Frozen Shoulder?
The symptoms of frozen shoulder occur in stages, with recovery sometimes taking up to three years. It is important to discuss your symptoms to your provider so they can help determine the best steps for your care. As mentioned above, the main symptoms of frozen shoulder are pain and stiffness, which make it difficult or even impossible to move your shoulder. This pain may feel dull or achy, often worsening throughout the night. The three stages of frozen shoulder include:
Stage 1 – Freezing Stage
Pain slowly increases and the shoulder gradually loses range of motion
Lasts anywhere from 6 weeks to 9 months
Stage 2 – Frozen Stage
Pain may begin to improve, but stiffness worsens
It may become harder to complete daily tasks and participate in regular activities
Can last up to 12 months
Stage 3 – Thawing Stage
Range of motion returns to normal
Can take up to 2 years
How is Frozen Shoulder Diagnosed?
The diagnosis of frozen shoulder usually begins with a physical examination of the shoulder and a review of your medical history and symptoms. Your doctor will assess your shoulder’s range of motion by moving it in various directions while asking questions about your pain. In many cases, a physical exam is all doctors need to accurately diagnose frozen shoulder. Some cases may require additional imaging tests such as an X-ray, MRI, or ultrasound to rule out other causes of shoulder pain and stiffness (like shoulder arthritis or a rotator cuff tear). Once your diagnosis has been confirmed, your care team will create a personalized treatment plan for you. At OrthoGeorgia, we want our patients to be active participants in their recovery, and we encourage you to ask questions so we can address any concerns you have about your treatment along the way.
Frozen Shoulder Treatment in Central GA
Frozen shoulder heals on its own over the course of a few years. The main goals of treatment for frozen shoulder are to manage and control pain and gradually improve range of motion and strength in the shoulder.
Nonsurgical Treatment for Frozen Shoulder
Most patients with frozen shoulder can effectively manage their condition and symptoms with nonsurgical treatment methods. Your doctor will likely recommend nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as aspirin or ibuprofen to control pain and inflammation in the shoulder. However, if medication does not help, your doctor may set you up with corticosteroid injections in the shoulder, which often aid in improving both pain and range of motion. Physical therapy is also utilized as part of a conservative treatment plan for frozen shoulder, which is most effective at specific stages of the condition. When you work with a physical therapist at OrthoGeorgia, they will guide you through stretching exercises designed for both in-office and at-home practice. Consistency and repetition of these exercises will help improve your shoulder’s range of motion.
At OrthoGeorgia, our physical therapists work with patients of all ages, creating comprehensive treatment plans and working directly with our providers to ensure that your care is as cohesive and effective as possible. We offer comprehensive physical therapy care in Central GA at our offices in Macon, Warner Robins, and Kathleen.
Frozen Shoulder Surgery
Surgery is typically not required or performed for frozen shoulder. However, some patients who do not achieve relief via conservative methods may consider discussing surgical options with their provider. Surgery for frozen shoulder is usually performed during the “frozen” stage and focuses on stretching and releasing the stiffened joint capsule. This can be accomplished through manual manipulation of the shoulder (under anesthesia) or shoulder arthroscopy. These procedures are often used in combination to obtain the best results. At OrthoGeorgia, we strive to provide our patients with successful long-term surgical outcomes following adhesive capsulitis surgery. Our goal is to help you feel at ease and reassured throughout your treatment. We are here to support you every step of the way.
Other Shoulder Conditions We Treat at OrthoGeorgia
There are many orthopaedic conditions and injuries that can severely impact your ability to enjoy the things you love. Persistent shoulder pain can negatively impact sports performance, disrupt daily activities, and more, making proper treatment crucial for all patients. Our skilled doctors specialize in diagnosing, treating, and managing a wide range of orthopaedic shoulder conditions and injuries, including:
Macon
