Frozen Shoulder Specialist

Frozen Shoulder Q & A

What is frozen shoulder?

Also referred to as adhesive capsulitis, frozen shoulder is a condition in which you experience shoulder pain and limited mobility. Frozen shoulder develops when the connective tissue that surrounds your shoulder thickens with scar tissue, which limits mobility and causes pain that’s likely to be worse at night.

Researchers aren’t certain what causes frozen shoulder, but you may be more at risk of the condition if you have diabetes. An injury to the shoulder can also cause the condition.

What are the symptoms of frozen shoulder?

Frozen shoulder symptoms tend to develop in stages, with each stage lasting several months. The stages include:

Freezing stage

During the freezing stage of your frozen shoulder, you may have some range of motion in your shoulder, but it’s limited and painful.

Frozen stage

You may no longer experience any pain during the frozen stage, but mobility is usually significantly decreased.

Thawing stage

As you enter the thawing stage of your frozen shoulder, your movement begins to return.

If you’re experiencing changes in shoulder movement or you’re experiencing unexplained shoulder pain, contact the team at Orthopedic Specialists for an evaluation.

How is frozen shoulder diagnosed?

To determine if your shoulder condition is due to a frozen shoulder, your doctor at Orthopedic Specialists conducts a comprehensive examination. During your examination, your doctor reviews your symptoms and conducts various tests of your shoulder to assess mobility and function.

In most cases, your doctor can diagnose frozen shoulder during your examination, but diagnostic imaging may be recommended for confirmation.

What are the treatments for a frozen shoulder?

The team at Orthopedic Specialists initially take a conservative approach to the management of frozen shoulder as it usually resolves with time. Your treatment may include medication and physical therapy.

However, if your pain and immobility continue, your doctor at Orthopedic Specialists may recommend shoulder manipulation. During this procedure, which is conducted under anesthesia, your doctor manipulates your shoulder to help break up the scar tissue and improve overall function.

A frozen shoulder can severely limit your ability to work or go about your day. For management from a compassionate team of experts, call Orthopedic Specialists or schedule an appointment online today.