Frozen shoulder is the condition of a painful shoulder, limiting movements because of pain and inflammation. It is also called adhesive capsulitis and can progress to the state where an individual may feel it very hard to move the shoulder. It is more common in older adults aged between 40 and 60 years and occurs more often in women than men. Dr. Steven Struhl at Shoulders & Knees offers frozen shoulder treatment at his clinics in Westchester and NYC.
Frozen shoulder is caused by inflammation of the ligaments, holding the shoulder bones to each other. The shoulder capsule becomes thick and tight. Stiff bands of tissue called adhesions may develop. Individuals with a shoulder injury, multiple shoulder surgeries, a shoulder immobilized for longer periods of time or other disease conditions such as diabetes, hypothyroidism, hyperthyroidism, Parkinson’s disease and cardiac diseases, are at risk of developing frozen shoulder.
Pain Relief for Adhesive Capsulitis
Frozen shoulder may cause pain, stiffness and limit the movements of the shoulder. The condition can be diagnosed by the presenting symptoms and radiological diagnostic procedures such as x-rays or MRI scans. Treatment for frozen shoulder includes nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and steroid injections for pain, treatment of underlying risk factors and shoulder arthroscopy surgery. During surgery, the scar tissue will be removed and tight ligaments, if any, will be dissected. Following surgery, physical therapy will be advised to bring back full range of motion and strengthen the muscles.
Dr. Struhl has decades of experience in treating orthopedic conditions, specializing in shoulder injuries and conditions. His expertise is valuable for treating painful and mobility-restricting shoulder conditions, like frozen shoulder. Whenever possible, Dr. Struhl prefers to proceed with conservative or minimally-invasive treatments to obtain pain relief and regain mobility for his patients.
If you suffer from stiffness and lost mobility in your shoulder, you may have adhesive capsulitis. Contact our clinic in NYC or Westchester to schedule an appointment with Dr. Struhl for a diagnosis and treatment options.
