What is Frozen Shoulder?
Frozen shoulder, or adhesive capsulitis, is a condition that causes pain, stiffness, and restricted movement in the shoulder joint. Over time, the condition progresses through three stages and can last for months or even years if left untreated.
Dr. Michael Del Core, a leading orthopedic shoulder specialist in Omaha, NE, provides expert diagnosis and treatment to help patients regain mobility and eliminate pain associated with frozen shoulder.
Common Causes of Frozen Shoulder
Frozen shoulder occurs when the shoulder capsule thickens and tightens, restricting movement. While the exact cause isn’t always clear, several risk factors contribute to the condition:
- Injury or Surgery: Prolonged immobility after an injury, fracture, or shoulder surgery can trigger frozen shoulder.
- Diabetes: Individuals with diabetes have a higher risk of developing frozen shoulder.
- Thyroid Disorders: Hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism may contribute to inflammation in the shoulder.
- Autoimmune & Inflammatory Conditions: Rheumatoid arthritis and other autoimmune disorders can increase susceptibility.
- Age & Gender: Most common in people between 40-60 years old, especially women.
- Heart or Neurological Conditions: Stroke, Parkinson’s disease, or heart disease can impact shoulder mobility and increase risk.
Symptoms of Frozen Shoulder
Frozen shoulder progresses through three distinct stages, each with unique symptoms:
- Freezing Stage (Pain & Stiffness Begin, 6-9 months)
- Gradual shoulder pain, especially at night.
- Increased stiffness and difficulty with movement.
- Pain worsens with activity.
- Frozen Stage (Severe Stiffness, 4-12 months)
- Pain may decrease, but stiffness severely restricts movement.
- Daily activities like dressing, reaching, or lifting become challenging.
- Shoulder mobility is significantly reduced.
- Thawing Stage (Gradual Improvement, 6-24 months)
- Pain decreases, and range of motion slowly returns.
- Movement improves with therapy and exercise.
- Full recovery can take months to years.
Diagnosis: When to See Dr. Michael Del Core
If you experience persistent shoulder pain and stiffness that worsens over time, schedule a consultation with Dr. Michael Del Core in Omaha, NE. A diagnosis typically includes:
- Physical Examination: Testing range of motion and pain levels.
- Imaging Tests (X-ray/MRI): To rule out arthritis or rotator cuff tears.
- Patient History Review: Identifying risk factors and medical conditions contributing to frozen shoulder.
Treatment Options for Frozen Shoulder in Omaha, NE
While frozen shoulder can resolve on its own, early intervention can speed up recovery and reduce pain. Treatment options include:
- Non-Surgical Treatment (First Line of Defense)
- Physical Therapy: A guided stretching and mobility program to restore movement.
- Anti-Inflammatory Medications: NSAIDs (ibuprofen, naproxen) for pain relief.
- Corticosteroid Injections: Reduces shoulder inflammation and pain.
- Heat & Ice Therapy: Helps improve circulation and relieve stiffness.
- Hydrodilatation (Saline Injection): Expanding the shoulder capsule to improve movement.
- Surgical Options (For Severe Cases)
If conservative treatments fail, surgery may be required to break up adhesions and restore mobility.- Manipulation Under Anesthesia (MUA): The shoulder is moved forcefully while the patient is under anesthesia to break up scar tissue.
- Arthroscopic Shoulder Surgery: Minimally invasive removal of tight adhesions and scar tissue to restore motion.
How to Prevent Frozen Shoulder
- Stay active and keep your shoulder moving, even after an injury.
- Perform gentle range-of-motion exercises daily.
- Follow rehabilitation exercises after surgery or injury.
- Manage diabetes and inflammatory conditions that increase risk.
Find Expert Frozen Shoulder Treatment in Omaha & Iowa
If shoulder pain and stiffness are affecting your daily life, don’t wait for the condition to worsen. Dr. Michael Del Core, a top orthopedic specialist in Omaha, NE, offers expert diagnosis and personalized treatment plans to help you regain movement and eliminate pain.
📅 Schedule an appointment today for a comprehensive evaluation.
📍 Convenient locations in Omaha, NE, and serving Iowa patients. ☎️ Call now to book your consultation!
