Frozen shoulder, also known as adhesive capsulitis, is a condition characterized by stiffness and pain in the shoulder joint. It often leads to a limited range of motion and can significantly impact a person’s daily activities.
Full Range Spine & Ortho specialists discuss the common treatments for frozen shoulder that can help alleviate symptoms and improve shoulder function.
Physical Therapy
One of the most common treatments for a frozen shoulder is physical therapy. A physical therapist can design a customized exercise program to help improve flexibility and strength in the shoulder joint. These exercises aim to stretch the shoulder capsule and surrounding soft tissues, gradually improving range of motion and reducing pain.
Chiropractic Adjustments
Chiropractic care can also be beneficial for individuals with a frozen shoulder. Chiropractors use manual adjustments to manipulate the spine and other joints, including the shoulder. These adjustments can help reduce pain and stiffness and improve overall joint function.
Joint Injections
In some cases, your spine and orthopedic specialist may recommend joint injections to alleviate symptoms of a frozen shoulder. These injections may include corticosteroids, which can help reduce inflammation and relieve pain in the shoulder joint. Additionally, platelet-rich plasma (PRP) or stem cell therapy injections may be considered to promote healing and tissue regeneration.
Over-the-Counter Medications
Over-the-counter nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen or naproxen, can be used to manage pain and reduce inflammation associated with a frozen shoulder. These medications can be a part of the overall treatment plan prescribed by your Full Range Spine & Ortho specialist.
Heat and Cold Therapy
Applying heat or cold packs to the affected shoulder can provide relief from the pain and stiffness associated with a frozen shoulder. Heat therapy can help improve blood flow and relax the muscles, while cold therapy can help reduce inflammation and numb the area, providing temporary pain relief.
Surgery
In severe cases where other treatments have been ineffective, surgery may be considered as a last resort. Surgical options for a frozen shoulder may include manipulation under anesthesia, in which the shoulder is forcefully moved to break up adhesions, or arthroscopic capsular release, a minimally invasive procedure to release tight tissues surrounding the shoulder joint.
Los Angeles Frozen Shoulder Treatment
The most effective treatment for a frozen shoulder may vary from person to person. One of our specialists will assess your specific condition and tailor a treatment plan that best suits your needs. Additionally, early intervention and consistent follow-through with the prescribed treatment plan are crucial for the successful management of a frozen shoulder.
Full Range Spine & Ortho recommends the most common non-invasive treatments for frozen shoulder, but in some cases, surgery is necessary to restore range of motion and a better quality of life. Our treatment goals are always to reduce pain, improve the range of motion and enhance the overall function of the shoulder joint.
If you are experiencing symptoms of a frozen shoulder, schedule a consultation with one of our orthopedic specialists for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment recommendations.
Posted on behalf of FullRange Spine & Ortho