Frozen Shoulder
Adhesive Capsulitis
Frozen shoulder is a painful condition arising from chronic shoulder joint stiffness, most prevalent in individuals aged 40 to 60. This condition generally occurs after a shoulder injury which requires shoulder immobilisation and results in scar tissue formation, which deters joint movement. Research is still being conducted to understand the causes of frozen shoulder; however, evidence indicates that Parkinson's disease, heart disease, diabetes and thyroid disease can contribute to the development of this shoulder condition.
Frozen shoulder symptoms
There are three phases:
- The joint begins to tighten and shoulder aching gradually increases.
- Sleeping on the affected shoulder induces pain.
- Reduced shoulder movement capacities and greater stiffness
- Difficulty completing everyday activities
- The abilities of shoulder muscles may continue to decrease due to lack of use.
- Mobility progressively increases.
- Gradual decrease in pain
Frozen shoulder treatments
As early intervention can prevent complex, long-term conditions, speak to Dr Oscar Brumby-Rendell as soon as possible if you are experiencing any of the addressed symptoms.
Dr Brumby-Rendell advises that you regularly move your shoulder, even if small pendulum motions are all you can manage.
Treatment options include:
- Anti-inflammatory medication which aims to lessen swelling and pain
- Exercises to stretch the shoulder
- Application of heat
- Stimulating nerves and muscles via electrical means
- Cortisone injections
- Surgery (should all other treatments be ineffective) - keyhole surgical techniques may be used to perform an arthroscopic capsular release.
- If surgery is required, a tailored rehabilitation program will be provided by Dr Brumby-Rendell.
In most frozen shoulder cases, the issues will correct themselves, either independently or in conjunction with physiotherapy, within 1 to 3 years.
Once you have a referral…
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