If you have limited movements in your shoulder, your doctor at Medanta might suspect the possibility of a frozen shoulder. The doctor might use an imaging technique like:
...If you have limited movements in your shoulder, your doctor at Medanta might suspect the possibility of a frozen shoulder. The doctor might use an imaging technique like:
Medical therapy involves using non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medication. Aspirin or Ibuprofen is used to ease the pain in the shoulder area. Sometimes, a steroid injection may also be used to treat the condition.
Most of the time, frozen shoulder gets better with time. Within the duration of one year to three years, you can get back to normal and be fully functional. While some people prefer to leave the condition untreated, it could result in excessive pain and limited range of motion. Right medication at the right time could save you from grievous amounts of pain and suffering.
Heat can be applied on the shoulder area, to reduce pain and induce natural healing of frozen shoulder.
Mild stretching exercises are taught to increase the movement of the shoulders. Being the most used treatment mode for frozen shoulder, physical therapy aims to stretch the joints of the shoulder, to regain lost motion. Gentle exercises are prescribed by the doctor and it might take a few months for the condition to cure. If you don't see progress after six months of intense, daily exercises, speak to your doctor about other options.
Ice packs can be kept over the shoulders for fifteen minutes on a regular basis, to reduce pain and swelling.
In case other modes of treatment do not seem to be causing much effect, surgeries may be recommended to loosen some tight tissues of the shoulder. The aim of surgeries is to break open adhesives that cause frozen shoulder. If your frozen shoulder is the result of an injury, it is always suggested that the surgery be done within a few weeks of the occurrence of the injury, for the best possible recovery and relief. Often, two surgeries are carried out. In the first procedure called manipulation under anesthesia, your arms are moved into positions that stretch the tissues, while you are under the effect of anesthesia. In the second procedure, an arthroscope is used to cut through the tight and scarred tissues. An arthroscope is a small camera used to monitor the joints of the shoulder while the surgery is being performed. Both of these can be carried out at a stretch and the stitches can be removed within ten days. Many patients have their full range of motion back within three months after a surgery. Surgery could be risky. Therefore, be sure to consult a specialist before opting for a surgery. Postoperative physical therapy would be recommended too.
If you find it difficult to carry out your day-to-day tasks due to decreased range of motion, pain and stiffness in your shoulders, do contact a doctor at the earliest.
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