The treatment of a frozen shoulder usually requires an aggressive combination of anti-inflammatory medications, cortisone injection(s) into the shoulder, and physical therapy. Without aggressive treatment, a frozen shoulder can be permanent. Diligent physical therapy is often key and can include ultrasound, electric stimulation, range-of-motion exercise maneuvers, ice packs, and eventually strengthening exercises.
Physical therapy can take weeks to months for recovery, depending on the severity of the scarring of the tissues around the shoulder. It is very important for people with a frozen shoulder to avoid re-injuring the shoulder tissues during the rehabilitation period. These individuals should avoid sudden, jerking motions of or heavy lifting with the affected shoulder. Frozen shoulders can be resistant to treatment. Other treatments such as release of the scar tissue by arthroscopic surgery or manipulation of the scarred shoulder under anesthesia may be considered for patients with resistant frozen shoulders. The manipulation is performed to physically break up the scar tissue of the joint capsule. This procedure carries the risk of breaking the arm bone (humerus fracture). It is very important for patients that undergo manipulation to partake in an active exercise program for the shoulder after the procedure. It is only with continued exercise of the shoulder that mobility and function is optimized.