Frozen Shoulder (Adhesive Capsulitis)

Symptoms of Frozen Shoulder

If you find it difficult to move your shoulder without pain, or if you notice your shoulder becoming progressively stiffer over time, you may be experiencing frozen shoulder. The pain is often severe at night and can interfere with sleep and daily activities.

How It’s Diagnosed

Dr. Khoo will diagnose frozen shoulder through a combination of your medical history, a physical examination to assess range of motion, and sometimes imaging tests to rule out other issues such as arthritis or rotator cuff tears.

Living with Frozen Shoulder

Living with frozen shoulder can severely limit your daily activities. Simple actions like reaching for your seatbelt, dressing, or even sleeping can become challenging and painful. The stiffness and pain can last for months or even years, significantly impacting your quality of life and independence.

Treatment Options

NSAIDs for Shoulder Pain: Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are commonly used to reduce inflammation and manage pain associated with shoulder conditions.
Physiotherapy for Shoulder Conditions: Physiotherapy plays a crucial role in restoring shoulder function and alleviating pain for conditions like rotator cuff tears, impingement syndrome, and frozen shoulder. It involves targeted exercises and manual therapy to strengthen the shoulder muscles and improve mobility.
Arthroscopic Capsular Release for Frozen Shoulder: This procedure releases tight tissues around the shoulder joint to restore movement and relieve pain for patients with severe frozen shoulder.

When Is Surgery Necessary?

Surgery may be necessary if there is no significant improvement after 6–12 months of conservative treatment, or if pain and stiffness severely impact your quality of life. Arthroscopic capsular release can help restore shoulder movement and reduce pain.

What if I Need Surgery?

If your shoulder pain and stiffness have become unmanageable and other treatments haven’t helped, surgery may be recommended. Dr. Khoo will discuss the procedure in detail and provide you with all the information you need to feel at ease. From the initial consultation to post-surgery care, Dr. Khoo’s team will be with you every step of the way.

What to Expect at Your Consultation with Dr. Khoo

Dr. Khoo will take the time to understand your symptoms and how they affect your daily life. He will explain the phases of frozen shoulder and discuss the most effective treatment options based on your situation, aiming to restore your shoulder mobility and comfort.

FAQs

How long does frozen shoulder take to resolve?

Frozen shoulder can take anywhere from 1 to 3 years to resolve, depending on the severity and treatment approach.

Will I regain full range of motion after surgery?

Many patients regain significant range of motion after surgery, especially with diligent rehabilitation, but some may experience residual stiffness.

Can frozen shoulder recur in the same shoulder?

While it’s uncommon, frozen shoulder can recur in the same shoulder. It is more likely to affect the opposite shoulder at some point.