FROZEN SHOULDER
Dr. Amy M. O’Donnell offers evidence-based treatment for shoulder pain/stiffness and frozen shoulder
Alleviate frozen shoulder, stiffness, and various forms of shoulder pain
Frozen shoulder or adhesive capsulitis causes pain and stiffness in the shoulder and over time, the shoulder becomes hard to move. The causes of frozen shoulder are not fully understood and there is no clear connection to arm dominance or occupation. A few factors may put you at risk for developing frozen shoulder, such as diabetes, hypothyroidism, Parkinson’s disease and cardiac disease. Sometimes, an untreated case of tendonapathy will lead to a frozen shoulder if the pain is so bad that you stop moving it. The pain from this condition can stop you from doing your activities of daily living.
Generally, it can take up to 2 years to completely heal. However, there are methods to speed that healing time to several months with noticeable improvement immediately. Ice and heat applied to the area can help relieve the pain and improve flexibility for short periods. Ultrasound, electrical muscle stimulation will also relieve pain temporarily. Graston Technique® is a most effective treatment to relieve pain for long periods and increase shoulder mobility immediately. MLS laser therapy is effective with reducing and eliminating pain and inflammation so that your exercises are easier to perform. Trigger Point Dry Needling is effective in treating trigger points which are involved with a frozen shoulder. Therapeutic exercise, along with chiropractic shoulder manipulative therapy will have you back to your activities sooner. Kinesio tape can be beneficial to supporting the shoulder while it heals.
The synergistic effect of all interventions is the perfect combination to accelerate the healing of this often frustrating condition.