Physical Therapy For Frozen Shoulder In Delray Beach, FL

What is frozen shoulder?

The shoulder joint is surrounded by a capsule of connective tissue called the ‘capsule’. In a frozen shoulder, this capsule becomes thickened and inflamed, restricting the movement of the shoulder joint. Frozen shoulder, is also known as adhesive capsulitis. It is a condition characterized by stiffness and pain in the shoulder joint. The signs and symptoms typically begin gradually and may worsen over time. 

The condition typically goes through three phases:

1. Frozen phase: This is the initial phase of the condition when the shoulder becomes increasingly stiff and painful. This phase typically lasts for 2-9 months.

2. Frozen-thawing phase: In this phase, the shoulder slowly starts to improve, with some regain in range of motion. However, the shoulder may still be quite painful. This phase typically lasts for 4-6 months.

3. Thawing phase: In this final phase, the shoulder continues to improve, with a significant regain in range of motion. However, some residual stiffness and pain may persist. This phase typically lasts for 6-12 months.

There is no cure for a frozen shoulder, but physical therapy has been shown to help with recovery.

What can cause a frozen shoulder? 

The exact cause of frozen shoulder is unknown, but it is thought to be due to a combination of factors, including:

– Age-related changes in the connective tissue around the shoulder: Frozen shoulder is most common in people between the ages of 40 and 60.

– Gender: Frozen shoulder is more common in women than men.

– Previous shoulder injury or surgery: Frozen shoulder is more common in people who have had a previous injury or surgery to the shoulder.

– Immobility of the shoulder (for example, due to surgery)

– Diabetes: People with diabetes are at increased risk for Frozen shoulder.

What are the symptoms of a frozen Shoulder?

The primary symptom of a Frozen shoulder is pain, which can range from mild to severe. The pain may be constant or may only occur when the shoulder is moved. Other symptoms may include:

– Stiffness in the shoulder

– Decreased range of motion in the shoulder

– Difficulty performing activities that require the use of the affected arm, such as reaching overhead or behind the back

How can you diagnose a frozen shoulder?

The diagnosis of a Frozen shoulder is typically made based on a person’s symptoms and medical history. An examination by a doctor may also be performed. X-rays or other imaging tests are usually not necessary to diagnose a frozen shoulder. However, imaging such as X-rays, Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), or Ultrasound can show you the extent of tissue damage or if there is anything else that is affected such as rotator cuff muscles or even a labral tear. Your doctor or physical therapist can review these findings with you and come up with a treatment plan for your frozen shoulder.

How to treat a frozen shoulder? 

Non-surgical treatment can include Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory (NSAID) medicines. Drugs like aspirin and ibuprofen reduce pain and swelling. Physical therapy has been shown to be an effective treatment for a frozen shoulder. 

Steroid Injections for Frozen Shoulder: Steroid injections are sometimes used to treat Frozen shoulder. Steroid injections can help to reduce pain and inflammation.

Surgery for Frozen Shoulder: Surgery is sometimes necessary to treat Frozen shoulder. The most common type of surgery for Frozen shoulder is arthroscopic capsular release. This is a minimally invasive procedure that involves making small incisions in the shoulder joint and releasing the capsule that surrounds the shoulder joint. Surgery is typically only recommended for Frozen shoulder that does not respond to other treatments, such as physical therapy and steroid injections.

When to see a doctor for frozen shoulder?

If you are experiencing pain and stiffness in your shoulder, you should see a doctor. A frozen shoulder is often diagnosed based on a person’s symptoms and medical history.

What is the prognosis for a frozen shoulder?

Most people with a frozen shoulder will eventually recover their full range of motion, although this can take up to 2 years. Some people may have residual stiffness and pain, but this is will vary for each person.

How to prevent a frozen shoulder?

There is no known way to prevent a frozen shoulder. However, early diagnosis and treatment may help to reduce the risk of developing a Frozen shoulder. 

Can there be any complications of a frozen shoulder?

The main complication of a frozen shoulder is stiffness and pain in the affected shoulder. This can lead to difficulty performing activities that require the use of the arm, such as reaching overhead or behind the back. A frozen shoulder can also make it difficult to sleep on the affected side. In some cases, a frozen shoulder may resolve on its own without treatment. However, in other cases, a frozen shoulder may require treatment with physical therapy, steroid injections, or surgery. Frozen shoulder can recur, although this is rare. A frozen shoulder can also lead to the development of a frozen elbow, which is a condition characterized by stiffness and pain in the elbow joint. Frozen elbow is more common in people with frozen shoulder.