Frozen shoulder is the common term for a condition known as adhesive capsulitis. Actually, frozen shoulder is a very good name as those with the condition have very stiff movement in that area and often have severe pain and very limited range of motion. This condition can become worse, depending on the underlying cause or causes and, in some individuals, it can also correct itself with physical therapy and time.
Typically if physical therapy, steroid injections, and joint manipulation do not correct the problem, or if the pain is extreme and the lack of movement impedes your life, frozen shoulder surgery may be recommended by your doctor. Usually, arthroscopic surgery is the best option if there is significant scar tissue from past injury or trauma that is tightening the joint and limiting movement.
Prior to the Procedure
After being approved as a candidate for frozen shoulder surgery, your doctor will meet with you and complete basic physical tests, as well as blood and urine tests to make sure you are healthy enough to undergo the procedure.
You may have to refrain from taking specific medications prior to the date of your surgery, so inform the surgeon of any prescription, over-the-counter or holistic, or herbal supplements you may be taking.
This surgery is normally completed on an out-patient basis. You will not be able to drive after the surgery, so you will need to arrange for a ride. You will also be given information on eating before the surgery. Typically, you should not eat or drink after midnight the day before the surgery.
The Procedure
With most patients, the surgeon will use a general anesthesia, so you will be asleep during the procedure. Small incisions, typically three, will be made in your shoulder and the arthroscope will be inserted so the doctor can see into the joint. The doctor will use small cutting tools to remove the scar tissue that is displayed on a screen in the operating room. This procedure typically takes between one and two hours.
After Care
Unless there are complications, the doctor will typically release you after you are out of the anesthesia. You will have pain medication, as the shoulder may be very painful immediately after the procedure. The pain medications will generally control this with little discomfort.
You will have specific information on caring for the small incisions at home and you will typically start physical therapy very quickly. Full recovery after the procedure, for most people, will be three to six months. With physical therapy and routine exercising of the shoulder per doctors instructions, you will have a speedy and complete recovery of your range of motion.
We can discuss the procedure used in frozen shoulder surgery and answer any questions you may have. To learn more about this procedure, go to Web.
