Frozen Shoulder Treatment: How To Regain Mobility And Relieve Pain

Frozen shoulder, also known as adhesive capsulitis, is a painful condition that causes stiffness and restricted movement in the shoulder joint. It often develops gradually and can significantly impact daily activities. If you are experiencing persistent shoulder pain and difficulty moving your arm, understanding frozen shoulder treatment options can help you regain mobility and improve your quality of life.

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What is a Frozen Shoulder?

Frozen shoulder occurs when the connective tissue surrounding the shoulder joint becomes inflamed and tightens, leading to restricted movement. The condition typically progresses through three stages:

1. Freezing Stage – Shoulder pain gradually increases, and movement becomes more difficult.
2. Frozen Stage – Pain may decrease, but stiffness and restricted motion persist.
3. Thawing Stage – Shoulder movement gradually improves over time.

Causes and Risk Factors

The exact cause of frozen shoulder is not always clear, but several factors can increase the risk of developing this condition:

• Injury or Surgery – Immobilising the shoulder for an extended period can lead to stiffness.
• Medical Conditions – Diabetes, thyroid disorders, and cardiovascular diseases are associated with a higher risk of frozen shoulder.
• Age and Gender – Individuals aged 40 and above, particularly women, are more prone to developing frozen shoulders.

Effective Frozen Shoulder Treatment in Singapore

Frozen shoulder can be managed through a combination of non-surgical and surgical treatments, depending on the severity of the condition.

Non-Surgical Treatments

• Physical Therapy – Stretching and strengthening exercises help improve shoulder mobility and reduce stiffness.
• Pain Management – Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) or prescribed pain relievers can help alleviate discomfort.
• Steroid Injections – Corticosteroid injections reduce inflammation and provide temporary pain relief.
• Hydrodilatation – A minimally invasive procedure that involves injecting sterile fluid into the joint to expand the shoulder capsule and improve movement.

Surgical Treatments

For severe cases that do not respond to non-surgical treatments, surgery may be necessary:

• Manipulation Under Anaesthesia (MUA) – The shoulder is moved through a full range of motion while the patient is under anaesthesia to break up adhesions.
• Arthroscopic Capsular Release – A minimally invasive surgery that removes tight or scarred tissue to restore shoulder movement.

How Long Does Recovery Take?

Recovery time varies depending on the severity of the condition and the chosen treatment approach. With early intervention and appropriate treatment, most individuals experience significant improvement within a few months to a year.

Preventing Frozen Shoulder

While frozen shoulder cannot always be prevented, the following steps can help reduce the risk:

• Perform regular shoulder exercises to maintain mobility.
• Avoid prolonged immobility after an injury or surgery by engaging in gentle movement.
• Manage underlying medical conditions such as diabetes to reduce the risk of complications.

Contact Us For Frozen Shoulder Treatment In Singapore

If you are struggling with shoulder pain and stiffness, early treatment can help prevent further complications. Contact us for an introduction to a trusted orthopaedic specialist in Singapore.

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