A frozen shoulder, also known as adhesive capsulitis, is when the shoulder joint becomes stiff and painful, resulting in restricted movement. It can occur due to various reasons, including surgery.
After surgery, it is common to experience pain and stiffness in the shoulder joint. This is due to the inflammation and swelling that occurs as a natural response to surgery. However, in some cases, the stiffness may persist for an extended period, leading to a frozen shoulder.
Experts from Tarmeem Orthopedic And Spine Day Surgery Centre state that are treating a frozen shoulder after surgery involves a combination of medication, physical therapy, and in some cases, surgery.
- Medication
The first line of treatment for a frozen shoulder after surgery is medication. Your doctor may prescribe painkillers to manage the pain and anti-inflammatory drugs to reduce inflammation and swelling. These medications can provide temporary relief and improve the range of motion in your shoulder joint.
- Physical therapy for patients
Physical therapy is an essential component of treating a frozen shoulder after surgery. It involves a range of exercises that help improve the shoulder joint’s mobility. Physical therapy may be conducted in a hospital or clinic, or you may be given exercises to perform at home.
The physical therapist may use a combination of techniques, such as joint mobilization, stretching, and massage, to help loosen the joint and reduce the stiffness. They may also use heat or ice therapy to reduce pain and inflammation.
- Surgery, if needed
In some cases, if medication and physical therapy are not effective in treating a frozen shoulder after surgery, surgery may be required. This is a last resort option and is only recommended if the pain and stiffness are severe and are impacting your daily activities.
The surgical procedure involves removing the scar tissue that has formed around the joint and inflamed the lining of the joint capsule. This procedure is called arthroscopic capsular release. During this procedure, a tiny camera is inserted through a small incision in the shoulder, and the surgeon uses special instruments to remove the scar tissue and inflamed lining.
- Recovery after surgery
Recovery after surgery for a frozen shoulder can be a long and challenging process. After the surgery, you must wear a sling to support your arm and immobilize the shoulder joint for a few days. You will also be given pain medication to manage any discomfort.
Physical therapy will begin soon after the surgery to help improve your shoulder joint’s range of motion and strength. The physical therapist will provide you with exercises to perform at home and may also use ultrasound, massage, and electrical stimulation techniques to speed up your recovery. Last, always contact your doctor immediately if discomfort persists despite adhering to all the above precautions.
Following your physical therapist’s instructions and attending all scheduled therapy sessions is essential to achieve the best possible outcome. It may take several months of physical therapy and exercise to regain your shoulder joint’s full range of motion and strength.
