Best Frozen Shoulder Doctors in Chennai

Frozen shoulder, known medically as adhesive capsulitis, is a condition characterised by pain and stiffness in the shoulder joint. It develops when the flexible tissue surrounding the shoulder joint becomes inflamed and thickened, leading to restricted movement and discomfort. While the exact cause of frozen shoulder is still under research, individuals with diabetes, thyroid disorders, or a history of shoulder trauma are more prone to it. Prolonged shoulder immobility, particularly among women, also increases the risk.

In Chennai, frozen shoulder is a common complaint, especially among those leading sedentary lives or working long hours in fixed positions. Fortunately, Chennai is home to some of the finest frozen shoulder treatment specialists, who excel in managing this condition effectively.

Types/Stages of Frozen Shoulder

Frozen shoulder typically progresses through three stages:

• Freezing Stage: This initial stage sees a gradual increase in pain and a restriction of shoulder movements. This stage lasts from 2 to 9 months.

• Frozen Stage: Pain may decrease in this stage, but the shoulder becomes stiffer, making movement more challenging. This stage lasts from 4 to 12 months.

• Thawing Stage: The final stage involves a gradual return of movement to the shoulder. This stage lasts from 5 to 24 months.

Symptoms of Frozen Shoulder

The symptoms of a frozen shoulder can be distressing and include:

• Gradual increase in pain over time

• Difficulty moving the shoulder due to increasing stiffness

• Challenges in reaching overhead or behind the back

• Intensified night-time pain, disrupting sleep

Tests to Diagnose Frozen Shoulder

To diagnose frozen shoulder accurately, various clinical examinations and tests are employed by the best doctors for frozen shoulder, which include:

• Physical Examination: Assessment of shoulder movement and pain levels by experienced frozen shoulder treatment doctors.

• X-ray: Helps rule out other conditions like arthritis or fractures.

• Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI): Provides detailed images of the shoulder joint.

Treatment or Surgery Options for Frozen Shoulder at Apollo Hospitals, Chennai

At Apollo Hospitals in Chennai, a wide range of treatment options are available, including conservative measures and advanced interventions. These include:

• Medication: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) or other pain relievers to alleviate pain and shoulder inflammation.

• Physical Therapy: Prescribed exercises aimed at maintaining shoulder mobility and strength and addressing shoulder joint stiffness.

• Corticosteroid Injections: In cases where conservative measures fail, injections into the shoulder joint can alleviate inflammation and shoulder contracture.

• Surgical Procedures: In rare cases, Manipulation Under Anaesthesia (MUA) or Arthroscopic Capsular Release may be considered.