Frozen shoulder, or adhesive capsulitis, causes pain and stiffness as the shoulder joint capsule thickens and tightens due to inactivity. This can occur if the arm is immobilized for an extended period after surgery or an injury. Over time, scar tissue (adhesions) may form around the joint, further limiting its range of motion.

If you have frozen shoulder symptoms, you can explore your treatment options with an orthopedic specialist at Premier Bone & Joint Centers in Cheyenne, Wyoming. Our board-certified, fellowship-trained surgeons are highly specialized and provide personalized care for a full range of conditions affecting the shoulder.

How Is Frozen Shoulder Diagnosed & Treated?

To evaluate your condition, your physician at Premier Bone & Joint Centers will review your medical history, perform a physical examination, and possibly order X-rays to rule out other causes of shoulder pain and stiffness, such as arthritis and calcium deposits.

If we confirm your diagnosis of frozen shoulder, we can suggest a customized physical therapy regimen to strengthen your shoulder and enhance its range of motion. This may include:

• Targeted stretches
• Exercises using an overhead pulley
• Heat and/or ice applications
• Therapeutic massage

Additionally, we can suggest an over-the-counter pain reliever or anti-inflammatory medication to improve your comfort, if needed.

At Premier Bone & Joint Centers, we strive to keep bodies in motion by taking the most conservative approach that we believe will be effective. In our experience, frozen shoulder usually resolves without surgery. However, to address severe symptoms, we may suggest a surgical procedure to break down scar tissue or remove bone spurs from the shoulder joint, which may have developed in response to inflammation.

If you’d like to discuss your treatment options for frozen shoulder with a shoulder doctor in Cheyenne, WY, contact Premier Bone & Joint Centers today.