Frozen Shoulder
Adhesive
Capsulitis
Frozen shoulder is a painful condition resulting from chronic shoulder joint stiffness and is most common between the ages of 40 and 60. Frozen shoulder often occurs when the shoulder immobility has been present for a period of time and when a minor shoulder injury heals with scar tissue that affects joint movement. Even though the causes are not fully understood, frozen shoulder appears to be more common in patients with diabetes, thyroid disease, heart disease or Parkinson's disease.
Symptoms of Frozen Shoulder
There are three frozen shoulder phases that display frozen shoulder symptoms:
- A gradual onset of shoulder pain and aching where the joint tightens up
- Lying on the affected side is more painful at night.
- Movement in the shoulder is reduced and stiffens up.
- Everyday activities become more difficult.
- Shoulder muscles may begin to waste away through lack of use.
- Mobility gradually increases.
- Shoulder pain gradually decreases.
How to Treat a Frozen Shoulder
Speak to Dr James Mclean as soon as possible, as early treatment can help prevent severe shoulder stiffness setting in.
It is also advised to keep the shoulder moving, even if it's just small pendulum movements.
Treatment actions may include:
- Anti-inflammatory medication to reduce pain and swelling
- Heat
- Stretching exercises
- Electrical stimulation of muscles and nerves
- Cortisone injections
- Frozen shoulder surgery (only if all other treatment fails) – arthroscopic capsular release may be performed using keyhole surgery.
- It is advised that an aggressive rehabilitation program is followed after surgery.
Most cases will resolve on their own or with physiotherapy over 1-3 years.
Frozen Shoulder Rehabilitation
Physiotherapy for a frozen shoulder is usually the best early treatment option for frozen shoulder and involves a range of motion and stretching exercises. These are designed to keep the shoulder moving and avoid any shoulder stiffness. Your doctor or physiotherapist may provide you with an exercise plan that details the required exercises and how often you should perform them.
Best exercises for frozen shoulder include:
- Pendulum stretch
- External rotation
- Internal rotation
- Scapular retraction
- Adduction stretch
How Dr James McLean can help
Dr James McLean is an orthopaedic and upper limb surgeon in Adelaide providing consultation and various treatments for frozen shoulder.
With his extensive experience in treating upper limb conditions, he works with his patients to create tailored treatment plans which yield the best possible outcomes for their injuries.
Click here for more information on other conditions involving the shoulder, hand, wrist, and elbow which Dr James McLean has a special interest in treating.
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