Frozen Shoulder Surgery

A frozen shoulder should get better normally after one to two years. However, if there is no sign of improvement during those years, then the last result would be frozen shoulder surgery.

It is important the patient exhaust his nonsurgical option because it may have severe complications in some occasions. The pain should be controlled with NSAID (Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs) which could be applied topically or using pills. Physical therapy should also be performed to improve movement and strength.

If the pain is too much, corticosteroid injections should be used. Sometimes, it has no effect and the use of corticosteroid can weaken the muscles. Heat pack and heat liniments are a great way of reducing pain immediately.

Doing all the above will improve symptoms by up to 90%. There will be some stiffness that remains but it wouldn't prevent you from doing your daily activities.

When there is no improvement in pain after 10-12 months, surgical treatment is another option. With any surgery, there are risks involved. There are two main types of surgery: MUA (Manipulation Under Anesthesia) and shoulder arthroscopy.

Shoulder arthroscopy is a surgical techniques that involves the surgeon making several little incisions around the shoulder so a small camera and instruments can fit through it. These instruments are designed to burn, cut and smooth the shoulder capsule. As a result, the shoulder joint is less inhibited and will improve range of motion greatly.

The other option (manipulation under anesthesia) involves the patient placed in deep sleep using anesthesia and the surgeon forcing and stretching the shoulder to move. Capsule tear and stretching are the result of the procedure.

To achieve optimal results, physical therapy exercises should be performed right after surgery. Maintaining range of motion should be the top priority with treatment.