Understanding Frozen Shoulder
Frozen shoulder also called adhesive capsulitis causes stiffness pain and restricted movement in the shoulder joint. It occurs when the shoulder capsule thickens and tightens which limits mobility.
This condition is common in adults between forty and sixty years and occurs more often in women. Many patients consult Dr Mandar Puranik, the Best orthopedic doctor in kharadi, at Ortho Clinic , Kharadi, Pune for expert evaluation.
Stages of Frozen Shoulder
• Freezing stage where pain increases and movement becomes difficult
• Frozen stage where stiffness becomes prominent and movement is highly restricted
• Thawing stage where pain reduces and movement gradually improves
Early identification of these stages ensures faster recovery.
Causes of Frozen Shoulder
Several factors increase the risk of developing frozen shoulders. These include
• Long periods of immobility after surgery or injury
• Medical conditions such as diabetes and thyroid imbalance
• Poor posture and lack of shoulder movements
• Previous shoulder trauma or inflammation
• Autoimmune causes that create shoulder capsule swelling
Common Symptoms
Symptoms usually develop slowly and worsen over time. These include
• Dull aching shoulder pain
• Difficulty lifting the arm or rotating the shoulder
• Increased stiffness during night time
• Trouble performing daily tasks like grooming dressing or lifting items
Diagnosis of Frozen Shoulder
Accurate diagnosis includes
• Review of symptoms and medical history
• Physical examination to check both active and passive movement
• X ray or MRI to rule out arthritis rotator cuff tears or structural issues
Precise diagnosis by Dr Mandar Puranik helps create a personalised recovery plan.
Treatment and Management
Medications and Pain Relief
• Anti inflammatory medicines help reduce pain and swelling
• Corticosteroid injections may be recommended to ease inflammation
Physiotherapy and Exercise
Physiotherapy is the most effective treatment. It includes
• Gentle stretching exercises
• Shoulder mobility routines
• Strengthening exercises
• Home exercise plans for daily improvement
Hot and Cold Therapy
• Warm compresses relax tight muscles
• Cold compresses reduce inflammation after exercise
Minimally Invasive Procedures
When conservative care is not enough your orthopedic doctor may suggest
• Hydrodilatation to expand the shoulder capsule
• Manipulation under anesthesia to release stiffness
• Arthroscopic capsular release to cut tight tissues and improve movement
These methods are effective for advanced cases.
Recovery and Rehabilitation
Recovery may take six to twenty four months depending on the stage. Successful recovery requires
• Consistent stretching and strengthening
• Maintaining upright and healthy posture
• Avoiding sudden or heavy shoulder movements
• Proper control of conditions such as diabetes
Patients guided by Dr Mandar Puranik, a leading Joint pain specialist in kharadi, often achieve quicker recovery.
Prevention Tips
You can reduce the risk of frozen shoulder by following these steps
• Keep your shoulder active after injury or surgery
• Practice gentle shoulder exercises daily
• Manage medical conditions such as diabetes and thyroid disorders
• Avoid long periods of shoulder rest without medical advice
• Visit an orthopedic specialist if pain starts early
Prevention is always easier than treatment.
When to Consult an Orthopedic Specialist
You should meet a doctor if
• Pain lasts more than a few weeks
• Movement becomes progressively limited
• Daily activities become difficult
• Pain disturbs sleep
• You have diabetes or thyroid conditions
Conclusion
Frozen shoulders can limit your daily life but effective treatment restores comfort and mobility. At Ortho Clinic Pune, patients receive personalized therapy, advanced treatment options and expert care from Dr Mandar Puranik, a trusted Joint pain specialist in kharadi. With early intervention and consistent home exercises you can recover movement strength and confidence.
FAQS
1. What is a frozen shoulder?
Frozen shoulder is a condition where the tissues around the shoulder joint become thick and tight, causing stiffness and pain that limit movement.
2. How long does it take to recover from a frozen shoulder?
Most people recover within 6 to 24 months with proper treatment, including physiotherapy and exercises.
3. Can frozen shoulders heal without surgery?
Yes, most cases improve with non-surgical treatments such as medications, stretching, and physiotherapy. Surgery is only needed in severe cases.
4. Who is at higher risk for frozen shoulders?
People with diabetes, thyroid issues, or prolonged shoulder immobility are more likely to develop the condition.
5. When should I see a doctor for a frozen shoulder?
If shoulder pain or stiffness lasts more than a few weeks and affects daily activities, consult an orthopedic doctor immediately.
