Frozen shoulder, which is technically known as adhesive capsulitis, is a condition that is noted for causing stiffness and pain in your shoulder joints. Since it only occurs in about 2% to 5% of the population, those who are affected have a difficult time obtaining a diagnosis and receiving the proper treatment. Dealing with the aching, gnawing pain is not an easy feat, If you have frozen shoulder, here are a few of the options available to you.
Cortisone Shots
This is one of the most common solutions offered when visiting a sports medicine doctor. A patient is given a shot of cortisone directly into the joint of the affected shoulder. These shots reduce the pain and inflammation experienced by the patient. There is a temporary increase in pain directly after the shot is administered, but that usually disappears in 48 hours or so.
Manual Manipulation
While many people tend to avoid the prospect of having any surgical procedures done, some patients opt for manual manipulation when the pain becomes far too unbearable. This procedure involves anesthetizing the patient and forcing the arm to move. The process causes the tissues in the shoulder to disband and allow for increased movement once the patient is awake. There is pain directly after the procedure and there is a lengthy recovery period, but the pain is normally lessened after this time.
Over-The-Counter Remedies
Just as you would take ibuprofen, aspirin or a similar product to relieve general aches and pains, frozen shoulder can be relieved by medication as well. While this only provides temporary relief, it is a welcomed reprieve for patients who are in constant pain. Taking pain relievers is generally safe, but it is best to speak to a physician about this since some pain relievers can cause stomach ulcers if taken in excess.
Hot And/Or Cold Therapy
When treating the pain of frozen shoulder, some patients try applying heating pads or ice packs. While these are two very different options, both of them have given people a great deal of relief. Frozen shoulder pain is usually worse overnight, so it is a good idea to consider using one of these therapies while sleeping.
Trying to live with constant pain is not easy at all. Instead of doing this, it is best to look for other alternatives. Anyone who is currently dealing with frozen shoulder pain can seek relief in any of the options mentioned here. For more information, contact a sports medicine doctor like Interior Alaska Orthopedic & Sports Medicine.
Share16 January 2015
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