Stages of Frozen Shoulder
Frozen shoulder typically progresses through three stages.
During the initial freezing stage, persistent pain is the predominant symptom and often occurs at night, while the shoulder’s range of motion gradually becomes increasingly restricted.
During the frozen stage, the pain may subside, but restricted shoulder movement persists.
During the thawing stage, the pain may resolve and the shoulder’s range of motion gradually improves.
How Is Frozen Shoulder Treated?
The aim of conservative treatment is to relieve pain and restore the shoulder’s range of motion as quickly as possible. Treatment may include pain-relieving medication, corticosteroid injections into the joint, and physiotherapy.
If surgical treatment is indicated, arthroscopic capsular release may be performed. During the procedure, the thickened joint capsule and adhesions are released through small incisions using an arthroscope.
Early movement of the shoulder is particularly important following surgery. Rehabilitation is carried out under the guidance of a physiotherapist, beginning with gradually progressive range-of-motion exercises and later incorporating strengthening exercises.
