“Frozen shoulder” is a painful condition which progresses over time as the connective tissue lining the shoulder joint becomes inflamed and thickens. It is also known as adhesive capsulitis. Many patients are able to make a full recovery with nonsurgical treatments. However, arthroscopic surgery for frozen shoulder is sometimes needed to resolve the symptoms associated with this condition.
Frozen shoulder generally develops in three stages:
- – The freezing stage – During this initial stage, moving the shoulder becomes painful, thus resulting in limited range of motion. The freezing stage typically lasts somewhere between 6 weeks and 9 months. Shoulder pain and stiffness tend to get more severe as time goes on.
- – The frozen stage – This stage is typically characterized by less pain but more stiffness in the affected shoulder joint. During this stage, performing day-to-day tasks may be difficult or even impossible due to a lack of mobility in the shoulder. This stage usually lasts around 4-6 months
- – The thawing stage – During the third and final stage, the patient regains range of motion in the previously frozen shoulder as the stiffness subsides. This is also referred to as the “thawing” stage. Generally speaking, it typically takes somewhere between 6 months and 2 years for the “thawing” process to be completed. Afterwards, the patient’s normal shoulder strength and range of motion begin to return.
Arthroscopic Surgery for Frozen Shoulder
Frozen shoulder typically heals on its own within 3 years. However, the condition can greatly interfere with a patient’s everyday life, especially during the first two stages. In turn, treatment may be needed to help those with the condition manage their pain and increase their range of motion.
Usually, first-line treatments such as physical therapy, anti-inflammatory medications and steroid injections are prescribed to begin with. In the event that conservative methods fail to control a patient’s symptoms effectively, arthroscopic surgery for frozen shoulder may be necessary.
Trust Dr. Soffer for Your Frozen Shoulder Care
If you’re experiencing symptoms of frozen shoulder and have not had success with nonsurgical treatments, it may be time to consider arthroscopic surgery for frozen shoulder. To determine whether you’re a good candidate for arthroscopic surgery for frozen shoulder, it’s important to discuss your options with a skilled and compassionate orthopedic surgeon like Dr. Stephen Soffer.
Dr. Soffer is an experienced doctor who specializes in arthroscopic surgery for frozen shoulder as well as other advanced treatments and techniques. He will offer you individualized care and help guide you towards the most appropriate course of treatment for you.
To learn more about Dr. Soffer or to schedule an appointment with him, call our office at 610-375-4949. We look forward to offering you cutting-edge shoulder care and helping you recover as quickly as possible.
