frozen shoulder treatment options

I have only had a couple of PT treatments for my frozen shoulder, and have discovered how incredibly painful the PT is.  I don't seem to have any increase in ROM at this time.  Is this normal?  I was given one PT treatment prior to going on vacation, and was given exercises to do which I did religiously.  I notice that no matter how long I wait between doing the exercises, even as short as one hour, I am at square one with ROM.  Is this normal at the beginning of treatment?  How many PT treatments should I expect to have?  Also, my mother said she went to a Chiropractor for the same thing and it only took 3 adjustments and she was back to normal.  Everything I am reading about this is scaring me to death on the pain and duration of PT treatments.  Even the receptionist at the PT clinic told me it's one of the worst things you can get and indicated how horrible it is.  Also, my sister has this condition currently as well, her doctor gave her a cortisone injection and exercises to do and that's it and says she feels great.  Is PT the best way to go and is it worth all this horrible pain?  What's the best treatment?

[Dr Vinod]

Hello!

Frozen shoulder, medically referred to as adhesive capsulitis and we would share with you all treatment options.

Physical therapy works and you should be dedicated for it and for the pain you can take intermittent pain killers.

You need a good Orthopedician for proper suggestions and follow up.

1)Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and the application of heat, followed by gentle stretching exercises. The stretching exercises, which may be performed in the home with the help of a physical therapist. In some cases, transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) with a small battery-operated unit may be used to reduce pain by blocking nerve impulses.

2) The next step often involves one or a series of steroid injections (up to six) such as Methylprednisolone. Treatment may be needed for several months.

3) If these measures are unsuccessful, the orthopedician may recommend manipulation of the shoulder under general anesthesia to break up the adhesions.

4) Surgery to cut the adhesions (capsular release) may be indicated in prolonged and severe cases. The procedure is usually performed by arthroscopy.

5) Alternative medicine treatments include: Acupuncture for pain management and greater range of movement , Massage therapy ,Extensive stretching after warming/heating up the shoulder on a daily basis ,Nutrition , Water therapies, such as exercises in water, jacuzzi or Chiropractic.

Take care!