Frozen Shoulder

Frozen shoulder, or adhesive capsulitis, causes stiffness and pain due to thickened, tightened tissue around the shoulder joint. It limits movement and often develops after injury, surgery, or with conditions like diabetes.

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Frozen shoulder typically develops in three stages:

Freezing Stage: Gradual onset of pain in the shoulder that worsens over time, leading to limited movement.

Frozen Stage: Pain may subside, but stiffness increases, making shoulder movement difficult.

Thawing Stage: Gradual improvement in shoulder mobility as stiffness decreases.

Other common symptoms include:

Difficulty with daily activities such as dressing, reaching, or lifting

Pain that worsens at night or when lying on the affected side

Limited range of motion, particularly in overhead or behind-the-back movements
Dr. Romanelli will begin with a thorough physical examination to assess the range of motion and level of pain in the shoulder. He may ask you to perform certain movements to evaluate the extent of the stiffness. Imaging tests, such as X-rays or MRI, may be used to rule out other potential causes of shoulder pain, such as arthritis or rotator cuff tears.
The treatment for frozen shoulder focuses on relieving pain and restoring mobility to the joint. In most cases, frozen shoulder improves with time, but treatment can help speed recovery and reduce discomfort.
If non-surgical treatments do not improve the range of motion or relieve symptoms, surgery may be considered. Surgical options include:

Manipulation Under Anesthesia (MUA): This procedure involves moving the shoulder through its full range of motion while the patient is under anesthesia, breaking up scar tissue and improving mobility.

Arthroscopic Capsular Release: A minimally invasive procedure in which the tight capsule around the shoulder joint is cut and released to restore movement. This is typically performed using small incisions and a camera (arthroscope) to guide the procedure.
If non-surgical treatments do not improve the range of motion or relieve symptoms, surgery may be considered. Surgical options include:

Manipulation Under Anesthesia (MUA): This procedure involves moving the shoulder through its full range of motion while the patient is under anesthesia, breaking up scar tissue and improving mobility.

Arthroscopic Capsular Release: A minimally invasive procedure in which the tight capsule around the shoulder joint is cut and released to restore movement. This is typically performed using small incisions and a camera (arthroscope) to guide the procedure.
Physical therapy is essential both during non-surgical treatment and after surgery for frozen shoulder. After surgery, rehabilitation focuses on gradually improving shoulder strength, flexibility, and range of motion. Dr. Romanelli works closely with physical therapists to create a personalized recovery plan designed to help you regain full function and return to your normal activities as quickly as possible.

Whether you're seeking expert care for a sports injury, work-related issue, or a chronic condition, Dr. Romanelli and his team are here to provide personalized, state-of-the-art surgical solutions. Get in touch today to take the first step toward recovery.