Arthroscopic Capsular Release For a Frozen Shoulder
WHAT IS A FROZEN SHOULDER (ADHESIVE CAPSULITIS)?
A frozen shoulder is simply that, a shoulder that is no longer allowing movement. This is a painful condition that is caused by the accumulation of scar tissue or thickening of the joint capsule in the shoulder. This condition is more common in women than in men and chances of it increase after the age of forty. A frozen shoulder can happen with extended inactivity such as having the arm immobilized after a fracture, a shoulder surgery, or recovering from a stroke. Risk factors that increase the chance of having a frozen shoulder are diabetes, thyroid disorders, heart disease, tuberculosis, or Parkinson’s disease. A frozen shoulder can start off slowly with progressive stiffening and pain in the joint until the joint freezes. The shoulder will stay frozen for a while without intervention and the pain will subside. Over time frozen shoulders can resolve on their own. It is usually preferable to see a specialist for a frozen shoulder to gain back mobility and reduce the pain in a timelier fashion.
TREATMENTS FOR A FROZEN SHOULDER
CONSERVATIVE TREATMENT FOR A FROZEN SHOULDER
Conservative treatment for a frozen shoulder is going to revolve around pain relief and gaining mobility back to the shoulder in a more advanced timeframe than healing on its own. NSAIDs, over the counter medicines, such as Advil, Aleve, or Tylenol, can be used to help control some of the pain associated with a frozen shoulder. NSAIDs also have an anti-inflammatory property than can be useful, but NSAIDs are associated with gastric ulcers with extended use, so it may be better to see a doctor if you are going to need them for more than what the label suggests. Shoulder specialists can use a mixture of anesthetic and corticosteroids to inject into the joint capsule to relieve pain and reduce some of the pressure inside of the joint. Physical Therapy can also be utilized to try to gain back some range of motion. A heating element can be used as well to help try to loosen the tissues and reduce pain. If conservative treatments fail to achieve relief then a arthroscopic capsular release can be considered.
Arthroscopic Capsular Release
This minimally invasive surgery is used to help relieve pain and loss of mobility in the shoulder from adhesive capsulitis (frozen shoulder.) A series of small holes are made in the shoulder so that a surgeon may inflate the joint with saline solution, insert a camera to see what they are doing, and modify the joint with a series of tools required to correct the malady to the joint. The surgeon will arthroscopically remove scar tissue as well as freeing up over-tightened ligaments. A Radio-frequency (RF) probe is inserted into the shoulder and uses RF waves to cut the tissue capsule that surrounds the shoulder joint, allowing the shoulder to move more freely.
Arthroscopic capsular release recovery
Physical Therapy will need to be started immediately to prevent the shoulder from re-freezing and to gain back full range of motion and increase strength during recovery. You will be able to drive as soon as you feel comfortable doing so, most patients are able to within a week. You will be given medication to help with the pain of recovery, and most
Frozen Shoulder? Considering Arthroscopic Capsular Release? Meet with a Orthopedic Specialist near you! 817-375-5200
F.A.Q.
What causes a frozen shoulder?
A frozen shoulder can develop as a result of an injury, immobilization, persistent shoulder joint inflammation, or certain medical diseases such as diabetes or thyroid disorders.
What are the symptoms of a frozen shoulder?
Shoulder discomfort, stiffness, and reduced range of motion are common symptoms. The disease usually advances in three stages: freezing, frozen, and thawing, with symptoms ranging in intensity throughout.
How long does it take to recover from shoulder arthroscopic capsular release?
The time required for recovery depends on the individual and the severity of the ailment. Regaining the full range of motion and strength in the shoulder may take many weeks to months. Physical therapy and adhering to post-operative instructions are critical for a speedy recovery.
Can a frozen shoulder recur after treatment?
While the vast majority of people improve significantly after treatment, recurring symptoms are possible. Regular shoulder exercises and treatment of any underlying medical issues can help reduce the chance of recurrence.
