Understanding Frozen Shoulder: Insights from Dr. Vinay, Shoulder Specialist at Fortis Hospital, Rajajinagar

Frozen shoulder

A term we often hear, but what does it really mean? Many people, including patients and their families, struggle with this common yet misunderstood condition.

Dr. Vinay, a renowned orthopedic surgeon and shoulder specialist at Fortis Hospital, Rajajinagar, breaks it down for us:

What is Frozen Shoulder?

The shoulder joint comprises a ball that fits into a cup-like socket, surrounded by a covering called the capsule. In frozen shoulder, this capsule becomes tight and inflamed, leading to restricted movement and significant pain.

Symptoms include:

• Inability to lift the arm fully.
• Pain, especially at night, disrupting sleep.
• Difficulty performing everyday tasks like combing hair or reaching behind to scrub the back.

Who is at Risk?

• People with diabetes: They are more prone to developing frozen shoulder.
• Non-diabetic individuals: While less common, it can still affect others due to various factors such as inactivity, injury, or prolonged immobility.

How is Frozen Shoulder Treated?

Physiotherapy: 

Regular exercises to improve mobility and reduce stiffness.

Injections: 

Corticosteroid injections into the shoulder joint to reduce inflammation and pain.

Arthroscopic Surgery (when necessary): 

• For patients who don’t respond to physiotherapy or injections, arthroscopic surgery is a minimally invasive option.
• A small camera is inserted into the shoulder joint to identify and release the tight capsule.
• This procedure restores movement and alleviates pain effectively.
• Final Thoughts

Frozen shoulder can be a debilitating condition, but with the right treatment plan, recovery is achievable. If you or someone you know is struggling with shoulder pain, consult a specialist to explore your options.

To book an appointment with Dr. Vinay at Fortis Hospital, Rajajinagar, contact us today!

Dr. Vinay Kumaraswamy | Rajajinagar Bengaluru