Arthroscopic Surgery for your Frozen Shoulder: What You Need to Know
Have you been diagnosed with a frozen shoulder? If so, you are probably wondering what the best treatment is.
As your doctor may have told you, treating a frozen shoulder is usually successful through non-surgical means. However, in certain circumstances, surgery may be considered a treatment option.
If you have been referred for surgery to treat your condition, you must understand your situation, what surgery entails, and what to expect with recovery. Raleigh Orthopedic Surgery Center, an experienced surgery center in Raleigh, NC, can help guide you through the process.
What is a frozen shoulder?
The medical term for frozen shoulder is adhesive capsulitis. It is a painful condition that may also restrict the movement of the arm. Simple tasks such as washing the dishes or fastening a seatbelt can be difficult.
The following are the signs and symptoms of a frozen shoulder:
- Dull, achy pain that increases with shoulder motion
- Pain located in the shoulder or upper arm
- Restricted movement in the shoulder or stiffness
What causes a frozen shoulder?
There is no specific cause for a frozen shoulder. It is known to occur after minor surgery or a period of immobilization. However, several factors may increase your risk of developing a frozen shoulder, including:
- Diabetes: People with diabetes are more likely to develop frozen shoulder.
- Medical conditions: Individuals with hypothyroidism, hyperthyroidism, Parkinson’s disease, and cardiac disease are more likely to develop frozen shoulder.
- Injury or surgery: Immobilization of the shoulder due to injury or surgery can contribute to a frozen shoulder.
- Age: Frozen shoulder is more common in women between the ages of 30-60
- Hormonal changes: Menopause can increase the risk of frozen shoulder in women.
Why would you want to treat a frozen shoulder conservatively?
Treating a frozen shoulder conservatively (without surgery) is ideal. Many patients respond well to conservative treatment options. The resolution of the condition is often seen within two years, even without treatment. Methods used to treat a frozen shoulder conservatively include:
- Rehabilitation to improve motion
- Anti-inflammatory medication
- Corticosteroid injections
It is essential to know that treatment and rehabilitation take time. If there is no response after 6 to 12 months, then surgery may be an option.
What should you know about surgery for a frozen shoulder?
Surgery for a frozen shoulder is called arthroscopic shoulder surgery or arthroscopic capsular relief. A small camera and instruments are guided into the shoulder to assist surgeons with the repair.
The goal is to release the tight, thickened shoulder capsule causing the condition. This release allows the joint to move freely.
More critical than surgery is ensuring mobility is maintained after the procedure. A splint is sometimes helpful to keep the shoulder stretched during recovery. Often, physical therapy is started soon after surgery to prevent scar tissue from forming.
How do you prepare before a frozen shoulder surgery?
Preparing for surgery involves several steps to ensure a smooth and successful procedure. Here’s a breakdown of what you can expect:
- Pre-operative consultation
Your surgeon will conduct a physical examination to assess the extent of your frozen shoulder and discuss your medical history. You may need X-rays or an MRI to confirm the diagnosis and rule out other conditions.
Additionally, it’s important to inform your surgeon about any medications you’re taking, as some may need to be adjusted before surgery.
- Pre-operative instructions
Your doctor may recommend pre-operative physical therapy to improve shoulder mobility and strengthen the surrounding muscles. You may also be asked to follow a specific diet or avoid certain foods before surgery.
Your surgeon will provide instructions on any medications you should take or avoid before the procedure.
- Practical preparations
Plan for transportation to and from the hospital, as well as during your recovery period. You should also ensure that your home is as comfortable and accessible as possible, especially if you need assistance with daily activities.
What to expect during the procedure?
Frozen shoulder surgery, typically performed arthroscopically, involves a minimally invasive approach to address the inflammation and scarring in the shoulder joint capsule. Here’s a breakdown of what you can expect during the procedure:
- Anesthesia
Typically, patients undergoing arthroscopic shoulder surgery are put under general anesthesia. This means that you’ll be completely asleep during the surgery. In some cases, a regional anesthetic may be used, numbing the shoulder and surrounding area.
- Examination and repair
Your surgeon will make several small incisions around your shoulder. A thin, lighted tube with a camera (arthroscope) is inserted through one of the incisions. They will then perform the following:
- Joint inspection: Your surgeon will use the arthroscope to examine the inside of the shoulder joint, identifying areas of inflammation and scarring.
- Adhesions release: Your surgeon will use specialized instruments to release the thickened and scarred tissue, restoring shoulder mobility.
- Capsule shaving: In some cases, your surgeon may shave down the inflamed capsule to improve the range of motion.
After the repair, your surgeon will close the small incisions with stitches or surgical tape.
What do you need to know about recovery after arthroscopic surgery?
Many people experience pain after surgery, so it is tempting to want to limit your mobility. However, doing so can sometimes lead to a recurrence of the condition, so it is essential to have a post-operative rehabilitation program in place. Splinting for stretch and physical therapy can help maintain improvements in motion.
Total recovery can take three months or longer. Therapy may need to be continued if symptoms persist. Completing exercises at home and following post-operative instructions increases the chances of good outcomes.
What are the potential risks and complications of frozen shoulder surgery?
The most common complication is the ongoing or worsening symptoms, even after surgery. Other specific risks of frozen shoulder surgery include:
- Nerve damage: There’s a small risk of damage to nearby nerves, which can lead to numbness or weakness in the shoulder or arm.
- Stiffness: In rare cases, the shoulder may become stiffer after surgery.
- Re-tearing of the capsule: The repaired capsule may re-tear, requiring additional surgery.
Where Can I Receive More Information About Arthroscopic Surgery For a Frozen Shoulder?
Raleigh Orthopaedic Surgery Center is the largest and most modern ambulatory surgery facility in Eastern North Carolina that specializes exclusively in orthopaedics. Our patients receive outstanding patient satisfaction, superior clinical outcomes, and reduced costs.
Our Raleigh orthopedic surgeons, nurses, and support staff are committed to your well-being and recovery. We believe in a patient-centered approach and tailor our services to meet your unique needs.
Call our outpatient surgical center at 919-719-3070 for more information.
The material contained on this site is for informational purposes only and DOES NOT CONSTITUTE THE PROVIDING OF MEDICAL ADVICE, and is not intended to be a substitute for independent professional medical judgment, advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare providers with any questions or concerns you may have regarding your health.
