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Contents
  • When to Consider Surgery
  • Types of Surgical Procedures
  • Risks and Recovery

Is Surgery the Answer for Frozen Shoulder? What You Need to Know!

Is Surgery the Answer for Frozen Shoulder? What You Need to Know!

The Big Decision

For some, frozen shoulder doesn't improve with standard treatments. Is surgery the next step? Learn about surgical options and when they might be necessary.
Contents
  • When to Consider Surgery
  • Types of Surgical Procedures
  • Risks and Recovery

When to Consider Surgery

Surgery is usually considered only after 10 to 12 months of unsuccessful nonoperative treatment. If there's no improvement in shoulder mobility and pain persists, surgical options may be explored. The decision depends on individual progress and symptoms.

Types of Surgical Procedures

Common procedures for frozen shoulder include manipulation under anesthesia and arthroscopic release. Manipulation involves moving the shoulder to break adhesions, while arthroscopic release uses small instruments to cut tight tissues. Each has its risks and benefits.
Frozen shoulder, or adhesive capsulitis, is a condition characterized by stiffness and pain in the shoulder joint. Surgical options like manipulation under anesthesia and arthroscopic release may be considered when nonoperative treatments are unsuccessful.

Risks and Recovery

Surgical interventions carry risks such as infection, nerve injury, and stiffness. Recovery typically involves physical therapy to restore movement and strength. Patients should discuss potential outcomes and recovery plans with their surgeon.

FAQs

When is surgery considered for frozen shoulder?

After 10 to 12 months of unsuccessful nonoperative treatment.

What is manipulation under anesthesia?

It's a procedure to break adhesions by moving the shoulder forcibly.

What are the risks of shoulder surgery?

Risks include infection, nerve injury, and persistent stiffness.

Making the Choice

Considering surgery for frozen shoulder requires weighing the risks and potential benefits.
Discuss surgical options with Doctronic to make an informed decision!
Additional References
  1. Rangan A, Brealey SD, Keding A, et al. Management of adults with primary frozen shoulder. Lancet 2020.
  2. Gallacher S, Beazley JC, Evans J, et al. Arthroscopic capsular release vs hydrodilatation. J Shoulder Elbow Surg 2018.
This article has been reviewed for accuracy by one of the licensed medical doctors working for Doctronic.