Frozen shoulder symptoms can range from pain and stiffness to the inability to move your shoulder at all. It is a condition that can be frustrating and debilitating, especially if it affects your quality of life. It is often difficult to pinpoint the cause of this problem and if left untreated can take months or even years to resolve.
The symptoms of frozen shoulder vary from person to person and can be difficult to distinguish from other conditions that can also cause a similar set of symptoms. However, a medical professional can diagnose the problem by performing a thorough physical exam and reviewing your medical history. In addition, X-rays or an MRI may be needed to determine if your frozen shoulder is caused by an underlying health issue that requires treatment.
Stage 1: The ‘painful’ phase
This stage is characterized by extreme pain when making any movement with the shoulder. The shoulder becomes stiff and can be difficult to move, even if you are only gently moving your arm around. This can be particularly painful when brushing your hair or lifting your arms.
Stage 2: The’stiff’ phase
This is the second phase of frozen shoulder. The shoulder is progressively stiffer until it is nearly impossible to move it at all. It can be frustrating and painful, but it can be managed with over the counter pain medications or physiotherapy exercises.
Stage 3: The ‘thawing’ phase
This is where most frozen shoulder patients will regain some movement and function. It can be a long process but it is often possible to restore movement to your shoulder once the stiffness has been removed.
There are a number of treatments for frozen shoulder, but the most effective treatments include steroid injections, hydrodistension (high volume injections) and surgical options such as Shoulder Arthroscopic Capsular Release and Manipulation. Surgery is an option for patients who have failed other non-surgical treatment methods, and who do not respond to physiotherapy or medication.
Ultrasound guided steroid injections are more accurate and effective than traditional landmark guided injections. They reduce inflammation in the joint and provide a window of opportunity for you to complete physiotherapy sessions that can help you regain full movement in your shoulder.
Injections can be given in the clinic or at home, and can often result in significant relief. It is recommended that you do a course of physiotherapy within two weeks after receiving the injection to ensure you get the best results from the treatment.
Physiotherapy will help you stretch the muscles that are surrounding your shoulder, helping to improve your mobility and restoring the range of motion. This will help you to reclaim the function of your shoulder and avoid future occurrences of this condition.
A physical therapist will work closely with you to create an individualized rehab plan that will improve your range of motion and help you recover from your frozen shoulder. This is the most effective method for resolving the pain and stiffness associated with frozen shoulder.
