Effective Strategies for Managing Frozen Shoulder Pain
Learn effective methods for managing frozen shoulder pain, including medication, physical therapy, and advanced procedures. Early diagnosis and treatment are key to recovery, which can take up to 3 years.
Frozen shoulder is a painful condition impacting the shoulder joint, leading to severe discomfort and stiffness. The shoulder comprises three bones: the upper arm, shoulder blade, and collarbone, forming a ball-and-socket joint enveloped by the shoulder capsule. When this capsule thickens excessively, it restricts movement, causing frozen shoulder symptoms that can last from 1 to 3 years.
The primary signs include persistent pain and limited mobility. Early stages feature dull pain and stiffness, often worsening at night, with pain radiating to the upper arm. Symptoms develop through three phases: freezing, frozen, and thawing, each lasting from several months to years. Treatment aims to reduce pain, restore movement, and expedite recovery.
- Medications like NSAIDs help reduce inflammation and pain.
- Physical therapy exercises aim to stretch and loosen the shoulder muscles, especially after warm-up routines like hot baths or heating pads.
- In persistent cases, options such as corticosteroid injections, joint distention, or shoulder manipulation may be recommended. Surgery is rare, reserved for severe cases resistant to other treatments.
- Alternative methods like acupuncture and TENS can provide additional relief.
If symptoms linger beyond typical durations, consulting a healthcare professional is essential for tailored treatment. Proper diagnosis and early intervention can significantly improve outcomes.
