How to cure frozen shoulder: 10 simple steps I Mundo Hispanico

Frozen shoulder, also known as adhesive capsulitis, is a condition which causes shoulder stiffness and pain. Among its most common symptoms are the inability to move the arm without pain and discomfort that becomes more acute over time. According to statistics, between 5% and 20% of the population will experience pain related to frozen shoulder at some point in their life. The good news is that there are ways to alleviate these symptoms and prevent this condition from becoming more severe. Discover how to cure frozen shoulder here!

Physical therapy

Faced with a diagnosis of frozen shoulder, your doctor will indicate the best treatment for you. In general, physical therapy is usually recommended not only to alleviate the symptoms, but also to ensure that you not affected by sequelae associated with this condition in the future. Remember that physical therapy is unique for each patient, and must be guided at all times by a professional. Otherwise, you could be at risk of a tear or a more severe complication.

Medication is one way to cure frozen shoulder

Frozen shoulder symptoms usually come on gradually. At first, it is mild pain that becomes more and more acute, until you need to see a doctor. In most cases, they will recommend a specific medication for each type of pain. This medication has the objective of reducing inflammation and contributing to the disappearance of the pain associated with this condition, and, in general, it is ibuprofen or acetaminophen.

Stretches to cure frozen shoulder

Remember to consult a specialist before performing stretching exercises to cure frozen shoulder, since the intensity of can vary according to each person. At this stage, the aim is for you to recover as much mobility as possible without pain. These exercises can be done at home, using objects such as towels, balls, rubber bands and even without any type of accessory, as long as they are done slowly and safely.

Strength exercises

How to cure frozen shoulder — Shutterstock

After diagnosis, you may be referred to a physical therapist, who will work on regaining range of motion and ensuring that the movements performed do not cause future pain or discomfort. At this stage of recovery, you will use objects such as small weights to exercise your arm and shoulder muscles, with the goal of incorporating regular movements into your daily life.

Steroid injections

For some people, frozen shoulder pain can become very severe and limit their mobility. For this reason, in certain cases steroid infections are recommended. These offer almost immediate and progressive relief, which, combined with physical therapy and strength exercises, will prevent further damage to the area and promote deflation of the shoulder.

Posture

Woman in therapy with doctor — Shutterstock

Posture is extremely important for how to cure frozen shoulder. In the most critical stage of this condition, it is recommended that you sleep with a pillow under the affected arm. Also, you should make sure that your hand rests on your stomach as much as possible. This will give you a feeling of relief and avoid putting pressure on the joint or making sudden movements that increase your pain.

Use of the arm with the affected shoulder

While it is true that people with frozen shoulder report disabling pain, at least in some cases, this does not mean that they should completely immobilize the arm. Avoiding movement will only increase the stiffness in your shoulder and greatly delay the recovery you’ve achieved with physical therapy and strength training.

Hot packs on the shoulder

Some techniques for reducing frozen shoulder pain and warming up before strength exercises or physical therapy include hot or warm compresses. These can be applied by wetting a towel and microwaving it for a few minutes. Afterwards, it will be placed on the shoulder for 10 or 15 minutes without the temperature causing discomfort.

Cold compresses

Cold compresses are a complement to treatment with analgesics and anti-inflammatories and are of great help in reducing the pain associated with frozen shoulder. Simply place a cold pack, ice, or a bag of frozen vegetables on the stiff shoulder for about 15 minutes. This can be repeated several times a day.

Massage

Remember that while massage has the ability to significantly reduce pain and inflammation, it should only be administered by certified professionals. Deep tissue massage is most commonly used to reduce stiffness associated with frozen shoulder. The therapist will apply constant pressure on the affected muscles to release the tension that causes joint pain.

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