Frozen shoulder, medically known as adhesive capsulitis, is a debilitating condition that affects the shoulder joint, causing persistent pain and a significant reduction in mobility. This condition can severely impact daily activities, such as dressing, lifting objects, or even sleeping comfortably, leading to a diminished quality of life.
At Westminster Ortho Med Clinic, located in Dubai Healthcare City, our skilled orthopedic specialists offer tailored and effective solutions to address frozen shoulder, ensuring that patients regain their mobility and confidence. Seeking timely care from experienced consultants like Dr. Ishrat Azam Khan and Dr. Khaled Mohamed Diab is essential for a faster and more successful recovery.
Understanding Frozen Shoulder
What is Frozen Shoulder?
Frozen shoulder is a condition characterized by stiffness and pain in the shoulder joint, often progressing through three distinct stages:
- Freezing Stage: Gradual onset of pain and limited movement.
- Frozen Stage: Increased stiffness and difficulty in performing movements, despite reduced pain.
- Thawing Stage: Gradual improvement in mobility and resolution of symptoms.
Causes and Risk Factors
Frozen shoulder can result from various causes, including:
- Trauma, surgery, or prolonged immobility of the shoulder.
- Underlying conditions like diabetes, thyroid disorders, or cardiovascular disease.
Risk factors include individuals aged 40–60, with women being more commonly affected.
Symptoms and Signs
The key symptoms of frozen shoulder include:
- Difficulty moving the shoulder joint, especially in overhead or rotational movements.
- Persistent, aching pain, often worsening at night or during rest.
- Progressive reduction in the range of motion and shoulder strength.
Diagnosis: Identifying the Problem
Initial Evaluation
A comprehensive physical examination by the expert orthopedic consultants at Westminster Ortho Med Clinic – Dubai, is the first step toward diagnosis. The evaluation focuses on identifying the extent of shoulder stiffness, pain triggers, and any pre-existing conditions contributing to the problem.
Diagnostic Tools
To confirm the diagnosis and assess the severity, advanced diagnostic tools available at our clinic include:
- X-rays: To rule out bone-related abnormalities.
- Ultrasound or MRI: For detailed visualization of the joint capsule and soft tissues.
This ensures a precise diagnosis, forming the foundation for a personalized treatment plan.
Breaking the Ice: Effective Treatments for Frozen Shoulder
Non-Surgical Treatments
At Westminster Ortho Med Clinic – Dubai, we emphasize non-invasive methods as the first line of treatment:
- Physical Therapy: Our experienced physiotherapists design tailored exercise regimens focusing on gentle stretching and strengthening to restore mobility.
- Medications: Anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) or corticosteroid injections effectively manage pain and inflammation.
- Lifestyle Modifications: Patients are encouraged to avoid overuse and gradually improve their range of motion through guided activities.
Minimally Invasive Interventions
For patients requiring advanced care, we offer minimally invasive procedures:
- Hydrodilatation Therapy: Injecting saline into the joint capsule to reduce stiffness and improve mobility.
- Manipulation Under Anesthesia (MUA): A procedure where controlled shoulder stretching is performed under anesthesia to regain motion.
Surgical Interventions
In severe or refractory cases, arthroscopic capsular release is recommended. This minimally invasive surgical technique effectively relieves stiffness by releasing the tight joint capsule. Our skilled orthopedic surgeons, such as Dr. Khaled Mohamed Diab, have extensive expertise in performing advanced arthroscopic procedures.
The Road to Recovery: Post-Treatment Rehabilitation Strategies
Role of Physiotherapy
Physiotherapy plays a pivotal role in restoring mobility and strength post-treatment for frozen shoulder. At Westminster Ortho Med Clinic in Dubai Healthcare City, our highly skilled physiotherapists, Ms. Arooba and Dr. Rose Merry, create personalized rehabilitation plans tailored to each patient’s needs. These plans include:
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Heat Therapy: To relax muscles and improve blood flow to the affected area.
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Ultrasound Therapy: For deep tissue healing and pain relief.
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Myofascial Release: A technique to ease muscle tension and improve joint flexibility.
Their patient-centric approach ensures a smoother recovery journey and minimizes the risk of recurrence.
Nutrition and Lifestyle Adjustments
Recovery is not just about physical therapy but also about maintaining a healthy lifestyle. Key recommendations include:
- Balanced Diet: Incorporating foods rich in calcium, vitamin D, and omega-3 fatty acids to promote joint health and reduce inflammation.
- Stress Management: Adopting mindfulness practices and relaxation techniques to prevent muscle tension.
- Ergonomic Adjustments: Ensuring proper posture and workspace settings to avoid unnecessary strain on the shoulder.
By combining nutrition, stress management, and ergonomic habits, patients can support their long-term recovery and avoid future complications.
Long-Term Maintenance
To ensure lasting results, regular follow-ups with our orthopedic specialists, such as Dr. Ishrat Azam Khan or Dr. Khaled Mohamed Diab, are essential. These follow-ups help monitor progress, address any lingering concerns, and adapt treatment plans as necessary.
- Sustainable Exercise Plans: Incorporating low-impact exercises into daily routines to maintain flexibility and prevent stiffness.
- Preventive Measures: Learning proper movement techniques to reduce the likelihood of reinjury.
At Westminster Ortho Med Clinic – Dubai, we emphasize proactive care to help patients maintain their mobility and lead pain-free lives.
Success Stories from Westminster Ortho Med Clinic
We pride ourselves on transforming lives through expert care. One patient shared their inspiring journey: “I couldn’t lift my arm due to frozen shoulder, and it felt like my daily life was on pause. With the help of Dr. Khaled Mohamed Mohamed Diab and the dedicated physiotherapy team at Westminster Ortho Med Clinic – Dubai, I’m back to doing what I love, pain-free!”
Our multilingual consultants, like Dr. Khaled, who speaks Arabic, ensure patients feel comfortable and understood throughout their treatment journey.
Why Choose Westminster Ortho Med Clinic?
- Expertise of Western-Qualified Specialists: Our team includes leading orthopedic consultants and skilled physiotherapists.
- State-of-the-Art Facilities: Located in the heart of Dubai Healthcare City, our clinic offers advanced diagnostic and treatment options.
- Comprehensive Orthopedic Care: From diagnosis to rehabilitation, we provide a holistic approach tailored to each patient’s needs.
To Summarise, Frozen shoulder is a treatable condition, and with the right care and guidance, patients can reclaim their mobility and quality of life. At Westminster Ortho Med Clinic – Dubai, we are committed to walking with you every step of the way on your journey to recovery.
Call-to-Action:
Don’t let frozen shoulder hold you back. Schedule your appointment today by visiting our Orthopedic Services page or calling us at +971 55 267 7405.