Frozen Shoulder – Understanding, Treatment, and Recovery

Frozen shoulder, or adhesive capsulitis, is a painful condition that affects the shoulder joint, limiting its movement and causing stiffness. It typically develops slowly, with the shoulder becoming progressively more difficult to move. The condition can severely affect daily activities and quality of life, but with the right treatment, most patients experience significant improvement.

Dr. Nandeesh Shashidhar is a highly skilled orthopaedic specialist with expertise in diagnosing and treating frozen shoulder. Through a combination of non-surgical methods and, when necessary, advanced surgical techniques, he provides comprehensive care to relieve pain, restore mobility, and promote healing.

Causes and Risk Factors of Frozen Shoulder

Frozen shoulder often develops following an injury, surgery, or prolonged immobility of the shoulder. Common risk factors include:

• Age and Gender – Most commonly affects individuals between 40 and 60 years old, with a higher incidence in women.
• Previous Injury or Surgery – Shoulder injuries or surgeries can contribute to the development of frozen shoulder.
• Medical Conditions – Conditions like diabetes, thyroid disorders, or heart disease may increase the risk.

Symptoms of Frozen Shoulder

• Pain – Intense, aching pain in the shoulder, especially at night.
• Limited Range of Motion – Difficulty moving the shoulder in all directions, leading to stiffness.
• Gradual Onset – Symptoms usually worsen over time and may take months to fully develop.

Treatment Options for Frozen Shoulder

1. Non-Surgical Treatments

   • Physical Therapy – A key component in managing frozen shoulder, physical therapy helps stretch and strengthen the shoulder, improving mobility.
   • Pain Management – Anti-inflammatory medications and corticosteroid injections help manage pain and reduce inflammation.
   • Heat and Ice Therapy – Applying heat or ice packs can help ease pain and stiffness in the shoulder.

2. Minimally Invasive Treatments

   • Shoulder Joint Mobilization – Gentle techniques to improve range of motion and alleviate tightness in the shoulder.
   • Hydrodilatation – A minimally invasive procedure in which sterile fluid is injected into the shoulder joint to stretch the capsule and improve movement.

3. Surgical Treatments (When Necessary)

   • Arthroscopic Release – A minimally invasive surgery that involves removing scar tissue and releasing the shoulder capsule to improve mobility.
   • Manipulation Under Anaesthesia – A procedure where the doctor moves the shoulder joint while the patient is under anaesthesia to break up scar tissue and restore movement.

Recovery and Rehabilitation

• Gradual Improvement – Recovery from frozen shoulder can take time, typically ranging from several months to a year.
• Ongoing Physical Therapy – A key part of recovery, physical therapy helps improve range of motion and prevent stiffness from returning.
• Pain Management – Patients may continue to use medications or injections during the recovery period to manage residual pain.

Why Choose Dr. Nandeesh Shashidhar for Frozen Shoulder Treatment?

• Specialized Expertise – Over 15 years of experience in treating shoulder conditions, including frozen shoulder.
• Comprehensive Care – A holistic approach, combining non-surgical treatments, physical therapy, and minimally invasive surgery when required.
• Cutting-Edge Techniques – Access to the latest advancements in shoulder care to ensure optimal outcomes for pain relief and mobility restoration.
  
  

Dr. Nandeesh Shashidhar’s expertise in treating frozen shoulder ensures that patients receive the best care possible, helping them regain full shoulder function and improve their quality of life. Whether through physical therapy, advanced injections, or surgical intervention, his patient-centered approach aims for long-term relief and recovery.