Frozen Shoulder Treatment Options

Can frozen shoulder be treated without surgery?

The focus of treatment is the management of pain and improvement of shoulder range of motion. Treatments typically begin with non-operative options including oral medications, physical therapy, and sometimes injections. Commonly, over-the-counter-medications such as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are used. If needed, more powerful anti-inflammatory medications can be prescribed, such as steroids, either taken orally or injected directly into the joint. Physical therapy and completing home exercises is crucial in helping to restore shoulder range of motion and overall function.

What are the surgical options for frozen shoulder?

Surgery for frozen shoulder is typically considered when other treatments have not provided relief or restored function. Surgery typically involves a lysis of adhesions and manipulating the shoulder under anesthesia.  Additionally, and particularly in case of more severe adhesive capsulitis, a capsulotomy may be performed. A capsulotomy involves releasing the tight shoulder capsule to allow for greater range of motion.

However, not all frozen shoulder cases require surgery, and it is usually a last resort when patients continue to struggle with pain and functional limitations because of their symptoms.