This procedure is used in the treatment of frozen shoulders. A shoulder becomes frozen when the soft tissues around the joint become tight and short. This prevents the shoulder from moving and leads to the pain and stiffness that you are experiencing now.
The problem may resolve over time but it can take up to two years.
The procedure.
The aim of the manipulation is to reduce the recovery time by stretching the joint to gain full range of movement and injecting local anaesthetic and steroid to reduce pain and inflammation.
General advice.
This procedure is usually carried out on the same day that you are admitted to hospital and once you have recovered from the general anaesthetic you will be able to go home. You will need an adult to come and collect you and stay with you for 24 hours, because of the anaesthetic.
It is necessary that you see a physiotherapist before you go home who will show you the exercises to do after the procedure.
Outpatient physiotherapy should also be arranged for the next day.
Physiotherapy is an essential requirement following this procedure to help towards a successful outcome.
You can return to work 48 hours after the procedure. You should not return to work any sooner due to the need to recover fully from the anaesthetic. If you feel able to, you may return to driving a car after one week.
Complications.
Anaesthetic.
Injury to the nerves around the shoulder.
Failure of the operation to improve pain or function.
The shoulder may become stiff again requiring a further manipulation or arthroscopic release.
