Frozen Shoulder/Shoulder Pain

Stiffness and pain in the shoulder joint, combined with a gradual loss of movement, are the symptoms of a condition called adhesive capsulitis, informally known as “frozen shoulder.” The symptoms can be worse at night, which can negatively impact your sleep.

People with this condition typically develop an excessive number of abnormal blood vessels within the joint. These blood vessels carry pro-inflammatory mediators to the joint, causing pain and resulting in the development of scar tissue which can restrict movement.

What causes frozen shoulder?

The shoulder joint is basically a capsule containing connective tissues that expand and contract as the arm is used. The exact cause of frozen shoulder is unclear, but it is more common in shoulders that are kept still for an extended period of time—such as after surgery or an arm injury that requires the shoulder to be immobile.

Shoulder Pain Treatment Options

Conservative treatment

When first diagnosed with frozen shoulder, doctors will recommend a series of “conservative” treatments such as anti-inflammatory medications (over-the-counter and/or prescription), as well as pain injections and physical therapy. While these can help reduce inflammation and improve range of motion, full recovery can take up to two years, if it recovers at all.

Surgery

If conservative treatments have not worked, arthroscopic surgery may be an option. Surgery carries increased risks, and requires a long recovery period, during which intensive physical therapy will be required. In addition, up to 30% of those who have this surgery will continue to experience persistent pain or require additional surgery in the future.

Frozen shoulder embolization (FSE)

A new option for treating frozen shoulder is available from the doctors at Carolina Endovascular. Frozen shoulder embolization is a minimally invasive procedure to embolize or “block” the flow of blood through abnormal blood vessels within the shoulder joint. This has been shown to decrease inflammation and pain and restore range of motion. Furthermore, it does not impact your ability to have shoulder surgery in the future should you need it.

Please visit our FSE section to learn more about this exciting option »

Frozen Shoulder Embolization