A frozen shoulder is a condition that makes simple tasks, like reaching, painful. If left untreated, it can limit your ability to move your arm. Knowing the available treatments can help you regain mobility, reduce pain, and return to your daily routine.
Let’s explore the personalized treatment options available for frozen shoulder.
What Is Frozen Shoulder?
A frozen shoulder happens when the shoulder joint tissues become inflamed and stiff. This can make it hard to move your shoulder, and it might even “freeze” in place.
Although the exact cause is unclear, it is common for people who have had their arms in a sling for a long time. Some people with diabetes may experience frozen shoulder.
Common symptoms of the condition include:
- Pain in the shoulder
- Limited range of motion
- Stiffness in the shoulder joint
- Difficulty sleeping due to shoulder discomfort
Frozen Shoulder Treatment Options
Here are some options you have for treatment for a frozen shoulder:
1. Physical Therapy
Physical therapy is an effective treatment for frozen shoulder. A physical therapist will teach you specific exercises. They can improve your range of motion and reduce pain.
Therapists designed these exercises to stretch and strengthen your shoulder muscles.
2. Medications
Over-the-counter pain relievers can help manage pain and inflammation. Doctors may prescribe stronger medications if the pain is severe.
3. Steroid Injections
Steroid injections can be effective in reducing inflammation. They help manage pain. An orthopedic surgeon injects them into the shoulder joint. While they offer quick relief, the effects are temporary.
4. Home Remedies
Simple home remedies are part of the treatment for frozen shoulder. Applying heat or cold packs to your shoulder can ease pain and swelling.
You can do gentle stretching exercises at home. This will keep your shoulder from getting stiffer.
5. Surgery
In severe cases, orthopedic surgeons may recommend surgery. One of the most common types is arthroscopic surgery. It is a minimally invasive procedure. Arthroscopic surgery helps release the tight tissues around the shoulder.
When to See a Doctor
An orthopedic surgeon can help diagnose your condition. Then, they can recommend the appropriate treatment for a frozen shoulder.
Some key instances when you should visit them:
Severe Pain
Consult your orthopedic surgeon if you are experiencing severe pain. The same is true for aches that do not get better with OTC pain relievers.
Does your pain keep you awake at night? Does it prevent you from doing daily activities? It is a sign that you need professional help.
No Improvement
Does your shoulder pain and stiffness not improve after trying home remedies like stretching exercises, heat, or cold packs? If this is the case, you should consult a doctor.
Persistent symptoms can indicate that the condition is worsening and needs medical attention.
Difficulty Moving Your Shoulder
See a doctor if you find it more difficult to move your shoulder, such as reaching for objects or lifting your arm.
Limited range of motion can affect your quality of life and require specialized treatment.
Signs of Infection
While rare, sometimes a frozen shoulder can lead to an infection in the joint.
Do you notice symptoms like redness, swelling, warmth around the shoulder, or fever? If so, seek medical attention immediately.
These could be signs of an infection that needs prompt treatment.
Unusual Symptoms
See a doctor if you experience unusual symptoms that do not match typical frozen shoulder symptoms. This includes numbness, tingling, or weakness in your arm.
These could be signs of other underlying conditions that need investigation and treatment.
What to Expect During the Visit
When you visit the doctor, they usually start with a physical exam. This is to check your range of motion and assess the pain levels.
They might also recommend imaging tests, such as X-rays or an MRI, to better examine your shoulder joint.
Based on their findings, your doctor will suggest the best treatment plan tailored to your needs.
Early Intervention Is Key
Seeing a doctor early can make a big difference in treatment for a frozen shoulder. Early intervention can prevent further complications and help you regain full use of your shoulder sooner.
Do not wait for the problem to get worse; seeking help early can lead to a more effective and quicker recovery.
By paying attention to these signs, you can seek professional help. This can be the first step toward easing your pain and improving your shoulder’s function.
Personalized Treatment for Frozen Shoulder in North Dakota
Frozen shoulders can be a challenge. However, there are many effective treatments available. Whether through physical therapy, medications, or even surgery, taking action early can help you regain full use of your shoulder and return to your daily activities.
You can trust The Bone & Joint Center for personalized treatment for frozen shoulder. Our orthopedic surgeons are fellowship-trained in shoulder surgery, which means a physician with the highest level of training will be assessing and treating your shoulder. We create individualized shoulder strengthening programs, which you can do at home to maintain shoulder health.
To schedule a consultation, call us today at (701) 946-7400 or (866) 900-8650. Alternatively, you can submit an appointment request form.
Let us help you get the treatment you need for a frozen shoulder. We look forward to serving you!
