A Complete Guide to Frozen Shoulder Treatment London
An Overview
Frozen shoulder, medically known as adhesive capsulitis, is a painful and often debilitating condition that limits the range of motion in the shoulder joint. Many people can get relief from their problems with non-invasive methods like physical therapy, medications, and injections. However, when these non-surgical approaches fail to improve mobility and reduce pain, frozen shoulder surgery becomes necessary to regain shoulder function and quality of life.
In this article, we will walk you through the essentials of managing a frozen shoulder, including different treatment options , when they are needed, what the procedures involve, recovery expectations, and success rates.
What Is a Frozen Shoulder?
Frozen shoulder, or adhesive capsulitis, is a very common condition that may produce chronic pain and restricts the movement of the shoulder. Many patients are able to see good results from non-operative treatments including physical therapy, medications and injections. But if these conservative measures do not restore the motion and the pain relief is increasing then surgery for frozen shoulder treatment could be considered to help you get improved shoulder movement and improve your quality of life.
In this section, we will discuss everything you need to know about how frozen shoulder is treated, including non-surgical treatments, when you might need surgery, what the procedure(s) involve, recovery times and results.
Understanding your Shoulder:-
The shoulder is a complex joint formed by three bones – the upper arm bone (humerus), shoulder blade (scapula), and collarbone (clavicle). The capsule surrounding the joint holds everything together and allows for smooth movement.
A frozen shoulder can develop after an injury, or sometimes for no apparent reason. It is very common condition in people aged between 40 to 60, especially women and those with diabetes.
When is Frozen Shoulder Surgery Recommended?
Surgery is typically advised by a surgeon:
- When non surgical treatments such as physical therapy and steroid injections do not provide relief.
- Shoulder stiffness restricts numerous day-to-day activities, including getting dressed, grooming, or reaching up.
- Any reports or Scans will rule out other disorders that would require different surgeries.
Treatment of Frozen Shoulder
The aims of treatment for frozen shoulder is to reduce pain and increase movement of the shoulder.
- Steroid injections: These injections are typically given around the joint or surrounding areas to reduce inflammation and pain.
- Physical Therapy: This is an essential part of treatment for frozen shoulder. Therapists lead patients in slow, gentle stretches and exercises designed to release the joint capsule and reduce the pain.
Rehabilitation
- Physical therapy is under supervision and its duration is 1 to 6 weeks, with 1 to 3 visits per week. Stretching at home is recommended by the physician for one or two times a day.
Types of Surgery for Frozen Shoulder
To fix a frozen shoulder, there are two main types of surgery:
1. Manipulation Under Anaesthesia : (MUA)
The surgeon gently manipulates the shoulder, with the patient under general anaesthesia, to release the scar tissue. There are no incisions with this procedure, but bones or soft tissues can be damaged if the procedure is not done carefully.
2. Arthroscopic Capsular Release: (ACR)
During this arthroscopic procedure, the surgeon inserts small instruments through tiny incisions. That means surgeons can more accurately remove scar tissue and precisely treat specific stiff areas within the shoulder capsule.
Postoperative Recovery for Frozen Shoulder Surgery London
Recovery is important for frozen shoulder treatment London successfully. Patients start a regimented physical therapy program to sustain the motion gained during the procedure immediately after surgery. Supervised rehabilitation exercises and home exercises regularly and continuously are very urgently needed to prevent re-stiffness and keep the long-run better results.