3 Stages of Frozen Shoulder – What to Expect and How to Manage It

Frozen shoulder, also known as adhesive capsulitis, is a condition where the shoulder joint becomes stiff and painful, limiting movement. It typically develops in three stages and can take up to 2-3 years to fully resolve if left untreated.
Understanding the 3 stages of frozen shoulder can help you recognize the condition and seek timely treatment at LiveWell Hospital, your trusted healthcare partner for pain management in Ahmedabad. Early diagnosis and proper care from a frozen shoulder specialist can significantly improve recovery.
3 Stages of Frozen Shoulder
Stage 1: Freezing Stage (Lasts 6 weeks to 9 months)
In the freezing stage, you may experience:
- Gradual onset of shoulder pain that worsens over time.
- Increased pain at night and stiffness when moving the arm.
Management:
- Pain relief with NSAIDs, ice packs, and heat therapy.
- Gentle stretching exercises to prevent further stiffness.
- Physical therapy for improved shoulder pain management.
At LiveWell Hospital, our experienced frozen shoulder doctor will conduct a thorough examination to diagnose your condition and initiate a personalized shoulder pain management plan.
Stage 2: Frozen Stage (Lasts 4 to 12 months)
In this stage, the pain may reduce, but the stiffness becomes more pronounced:
- Difficulty raising your arm or reaching behind your back.
- Limited range of motion affecting daily activities.
Management:
- Continued physical therapy to improve mobility.
- Corticosteroid injections for pain relief.
- Avoid aggressive movements to prevent injury.
LiveWell Hospital offers comprehensive shoulder pain treatment during this stage, focusing on physical therapy techniques and targeted exercises designed to gradually improve your range of motion.
Stage 3: Thawing Stage (Lasts 6 months to 2 years)
The thawing stage is when the shoulder gradually improves:
- Increased range of motion and reduced pain.
- Regaining strength and flexibility over time.
Management:
- Strengthening exercises to restore full function.
- Regular stretching to prevent stiffness from returning.
- Continued physical therapy for long-term recovery.
When to consult a frozen shoulder specialist
If your shoulder pain is severe or persists despite home care, it’s important to consult a frozen shoulder specialist. Early diagnosis and intervention are crucial for effective management of frozen shoulder. If you are experiencing persistent shoulder pain and stiffness, don’t delay seeking help.
At LiveWell Hospital, the No. 1 Hospital for frozen shoulder treatment in Ahmedabad, we offer a range of non-surgical treatments to relieve pain and restore mobility, including:
- Medication: Anti-inflammatory drugs to reduce pain and swelling.
- Physical Therapy: Shoulder mobilization therapy and targeted exercises to improve flexibility and restore movement.
- Hot and Cold Therapy: Applying heat or ice packs to alleviate discomfort.
If pain persists despite medications and therapy, our specialists may recommend:
- Intra-Articular Injections: Anti-inflammatory injections inside the shoulder joint to reduce pain and inflammation.
- Hyaluronic Acid (Jelly Injection): Improves joint lubrication and mobility.
- Hydrodilatation: A saline and steroid injection technique that expands the joint capsule for better movement.
- Manipulation Under Anesthesia (MUA): A procedure where the doctor gently moves the joint under anesthesia to break adhesions and restore motion.
At LiveWell Hospital, we offer the best frozen shoulder treatment in Ahmedabad with a team of experienced doctors and effective recovery.
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