Discover effective methods to relieve frozen shoulder pain, including medications, physical therapy, and alternative treatments. Early intervention is key to preventing long-term stiffness and discomfort. Seek professional guidance if symptoms persist.

Frozen shoulder is a painful condition affecting the shoulder joint, resulting in intense pain and stiffness. The shoulder is composed of three bones: the humerus, scapula, and clavicle, forming a ball-and-socket joint covered by the shoulder capsule. When this capsule becomes excessively thickened, movement becomes restricted, leading to frozen shoulder symptoms that can persist for 1 to 3 years.

The main indicators include ongoing pain and limited range of motion. Initial stages feature dull pain and stiffness, often worsening during the night, with pain radiating to the upper arm. Symptoms evolve through three stages: freezing, frozen, and thawing, each lasting months to years. Treatment focuses on alleviating pain, restoring mobility, and speeding recovery.

Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can help reduce inflammation and discomfort.

Physical therapy exercises assist in stretching and loosening shoulder muscles, especially after warm-up methods like hot packs or heating pads.

For persistent cases, options such as corticosteroid injections, joint distention, or shoulder manipulation are considered. Surgery is rarely needed and reserved for severe, unresponsive cases.

Alternative therapies like acupuncture and TENS may also provide additional symptom relief.

If symptoms persist beyond the usual timeframe, it’s important to seek medical advice for customized treatment. Early diagnosis and intervention can significantly enhance recovery outcomes.