Frozen Shoulder Pain - Does It Ever Go Away?
Frozen shoulder, also known as adhesive capsulitis, is a painful condition characterized by stiffness and reduced range of motion in the shoulder joint. It is estimated that two to five percent of the general population will experience this condition at some point in their lives, and it is more common in women than men.
The good news is that frozen shoulder pain can be managed and, in many cases, can be resolved with the help of physical therapy, medications, and other treatments. But the real question is, does frozen shoulder pain ever go away completely?
Physical Therapy
Physical therapy is often the first line of treatment for frozen shoulder pain. A physical therapist can provide a variety of treatments to help reduce pain and improve mobility, including stretching, range of motion exercises, and manual therapy. In some cases, physical therapy can help resolve the condition completely.
Medications
Medications such as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are commonly prescribed to reduce pain and inflammation associated with frozen shoulder. In some cases, corticosteroid injections may also be recommended. While medications can help reduce pain and improve mobility, they are not a cure for the condition.
Surgery
In some cases, surgery may be necessary to treat frozen shoulder pain. Surgery typically involves releasing the shoulder capsule and stretching the joint. While surgery can be effective in relieving pain and restoring range of motion, it is not always successful.
Conclusion
Frozen shoulder pain can be managed and, in many cases, can be resolved with the help of physical therapy, medications, and other treatments. However, it is important to remember that there is no cure for the condition and it is not always possible to achieve complete resolution.