Frozen Shoulder

Frozen Shoulder

Omar Saleem, MD, MsPT

Dr. Omar Saleem is a highly qualified orthopedic surgeon and physical therapist specializing in the treatment of frozen shoulder, also known as adhesive capsulitis. This condition is characterized by stiffness and pain in the shoulder joint, which can significantly limit mobility and daily activities. Dr. Saleem employs a comprehensive approach to diagnosis, treatment, and rehabilitation, focusing on restoring function and alleviating discomfort.

Comprehensive Diagnosis

Dr. Saleem utilizes a thorough diagnostic process to evaluate frozen shoulder:

  • Medical History and Physical Examination: Assessing the patient’s symptoms, including pain intensity, duration, and impact on daily activities. Dr. Saleem conducts specific physical tests to evaluate the range of motion and identify areas of restriction.
  • Imaging Studies: While X-rays can help rule out other conditions, MRI may be used to assess soft tissue structures around the shoulder, providing additional insights into the extent of the condition.

Non-Surgical Treatment Options

For most cases of frozen shoulder, Dr. Saleem emphasizes non-surgical management strategies:

  • Physical Therapy: Developing a tailored rehabilitation program focusing on gentle stretching and strengthening exercises to gradually restore range of motion. This may also include modalities like ultrasound or electrical stimulation to reduce pain and inflammation.
  • Activity Modification: Advising patients to avoid activities that exacerbate pain while encouraging safe movements to prevent stiffness.
  • Anti-Inflammatory Medications: Prescribing non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) to manage pain and inflammation associated with the condition.
  • Corticosteroid Injections: In some cases, Dr. Saleem may recommend corticosteroid injections into the shoulder joint to provide relief from pain and inflammation, facilitating more effective rehabilitation.

Surgical Treatment Options

In cases where conservative treatments fail to provide relief or if symptoms are particularly severe, Dr. Saleem may consider surgical intervention:

  • Arthroscopic Surgery: A minimally invasive procedure that involves removing adhesions and scar tissue around the shoulder joint to restore normal movement. This technique typically results in less postoperative pain and quicker recovery compared to open surgery.
  • Manipulation Under Anesthesia: In some cases, Dr. Saleem may perform manipulation under anesthesia, where the shoulder is gently moved to break up adhesions while the patient is unconscious.

Holistic Care and Long-Term Management

Dr. Saleem is committed to a holistic approach to managing frozen shoulder, emphasizing long-term recovery and functional improvement:

  • Ongoing Monitoring: Regular follow-up appointments to assess recovery progress, adjust treatment plans, and monitor for any recurrence of symptoms.
  • Education and Support: Providing patients with information about frozen shoulder, including expected timelines for recovery and strategies for maintaining shoulder health.
  • Rehabilitation: Collaborating with physical therapists to create individualized rehabilitation programs that support recovery, enhance mobility, and restore strength.