Frozen Shoulder
Best Frozen Shoulder Treatment | Board Certified Orthopedic Surgeons Book Appointment Frozen Shoulder Treatment in Dubai at Emirates Hospitals Group. Our Frozen Shoulder Treatment combines advanced medical expertise with compassionate care to address the complexities of frozen shoulder. We emphasize conservative treatments and minimally invasive procedures to restore shoulder mobility and improve quality of life for our patients. Our Orthopedic Team delivers exceptional care through its team of highly skilled, board-certified best orthopedic surgeons in Dubai.
Understanding Frozen Shoulder
The shoulder joint is surrounded by a capsule of tissue called the capsule. Frozen shoulder occurs when this capsule thickens and tightens, restricting movement. The exact cause of frozen shoulder is unknown, but it can develop after an injury or surgery to the shoulder, or even in some cases without a clear cause. It is more common in people with diabetes and those aged 40-60.
Symptoms of Frozen Shoulder
Frozen shoulder progresses through three stages, each with distinct symptoms:
- Freezing Stage (3-6 months): This stage is characterized by:
- Pain: A dull ache or sharp pain in the shoulder, often worsening at night.
- Gradual loss of motion: Difficulty raising your arm overhead, reaching behind your back, or even putting on a shirt.
- Frozen Stage (4-6 months): During this stage, pain may lessen, but stiffness becomes more prominent:
- Severe limitation of movement:Significant restriction in your ability to move your shoulder in all directions.
- Thawing Stage (1-2 years or more): This is the gradual recovery phase:
- Improved range of motion:A slow and progressive return of shoulder mobility.
When to Seek Treatment for Frozen Shoulder
Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial for managing frozen shoulder effectively. Seek medical attention from the experts at Emirates Hospitals Group if you experience:
- Pain that interferes with daily activities and sleep.
- Progressive restriction in your ability to move your shoulder.
- Symptoms that persist for more than a few weeks despite self-care measures.
Diagnosing Frozen Shoulder
Our experienced doctors at Emirates Hospitals Group will conduct a thorough evaluation to diagnose frozen shoulder. This typically involves:
- Detailed Medical History: Your doctor will inquire about your symptoms, any history of injuries, and your activity level.
- Physical Examination: The doctor will assess your shoulder for tenderness, swelling, and range of motion. Specific tests will be performed to check for limitations in movement and identify potential underlying causes.
- Imaging Tests: X-rays may be used to rule out other conditions like arthritis, but typically don’t show changes specific to frozen shoulder. An MRI scan may be used in some cases to visualize soft tissues and confirm the diagnosis
Treatment Options for Frozen Shoulder
Non-Surgical Treatment Options
- Physical Therapy:
Physical therapy plays a crucial role in treating frozen shoulder by focusing on gentle stretching and strengthening exercises to improve flexibility and reduce stiffness.
- Medications:
- Pain Management: Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) or corticosteroid injections may be prescribed to reduce inflammation and alleviate pain, especially during the early stages of treatment.
- Joint Mobilization Techniques:
Manual manipulation or specific mobilization techniques performed by trained therapists can help break up adhesions and improve shoulder mobility.
Surgical Treatment Options
In cases where conservative treatments fail to provide relief, surgical intervention may be considered:
Arthroscopic Capsular Release
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- A minimally invasive surgical technique where the tight capsule surrounding the shoulder joint is released using small incisions and specialized instruments.
Recovery Process and Protocols
Post-Treatment Rehabilitation
- Early Mobilization: Following treatment, early mobilization of the shoulder joint through physical therapy is crucial to prevent stiffness and restore normal function.
- Progressive Exercises: Gradual introduction of stretching and strengthening exercises tailored to the patient’s specific needs and recovery progress.
- Patient Education: Guidance on lifestyle modifications, ergonomic principles, and self-care techniques to manage and prevent recurrence of frozen shoulder.
Frequently Asked Questions
Frozen shoulder can develop without a specific injury, but risk factors include diabetes, shoulder immobilization after surgery or injury, and certain autoimmune conditions. The exact cause is often unclear, but inflammation and thickening of the shoulder joint capsule are contributing factors.
Diagnosis typically involves a comprehensive evaluation including a medical history review, physical examination to assess range of motion and shoulder stability, and imaging tests such as X-rays or MRI scans to rule out other conditions and assess joint changes.
Treatment options include non-surgical approaches like physical therapy to improve shoulder mobility and reduce pain & medications to manage inflammation, and in cases where conservative methods fail, surgical options like arthroscopic capsular release to release tight shoulder joint capsules.
Recovery time varies depending on the severity of the condition and the chosen treatment method. Non-surgical treatments may take several weeks to months, whereas recovery from arthroscopic surgery can involve initial rehabilitation followed by progressive exercises over several months.
While rare, frozen shoulder can recur after treatment. Patients are encouraged to continue with prescribed exercises and follow-up appointments to monitor shoulder function and prevent recurrence. Emirates Hospitals Group provides comprehensive care and ongoing support to manage and prevent recurrent frozen shoulder effectively.
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