What is Frozen Shoulder & How is it Treated?
If you’ve been struggling to lift, rotate, or fully move your arm, you may be dealing with a condition called frozen shoulder. This painful stiffness can make even simple activities—like reaching into a cabinet or putting on a jacket—difficult or impossible. At Macomb Hand Surgery, board-certified shoulder doctor Dr. Uzma Rehman helps patients throughout Macomb County regain comfort and mobility through advanced treatments for frozen shoulder.
Frozen shoulder, also known as adhesive capsulitis, occurs when the connective tissue surrounding the shoulder joint becomes thick and tight. The condition often develops gradually, progressing through stages of pain and stiffness before eventually improving with proper care. Dr. Rehman, an experienced shoulder doctor in Macomb County, provides precise diagnosis and individualized treatment plans that help restore range of motion and reduce discomfort from frozen shoulder.
Frozen Shoulder Diagnosis
A shoulder doctor like Dr. Rehman begins by reviewing each patient’s medical history and performing a physical exam to assess range of motion and pain levels. The diagnosis of frozen shoulder may also involve imaging studies such as ultrasound or MRI to rule out other shoulder problems like arthritis or rotator cuff tears.
At Macomb Hand Surgery, shoulder doctor Dr. Rehman uses state-of-the-art ultrasound technology to accurately visualize inflammation and tissue thickening. This allows her to confirm the presence of frozen shoulder and develop a treatment plan tailored to each patient’s specific stage of the condition.
Frozen Shoulder Stages
Frozen shoulder typically progresses through three stages: the “freezing” phase, the “frozen” phase, and the “thawing” phase. During the freezing phase, shoulder pain increases and range of motion decreases. The frozen phase involves persistent stiffness, while the thawing phase marks gradual improvement.
Dr. Rehman, a skilled shoulder doctor serving Macomb County, explains that frozen shoulder can last for months or even years if untreated. Recognizing the stage of frozen shoulder helps her determine the most effective combination of therapies for each patient.
Treatments For Frozen Shoulder
At Macomb Hand Surgery, shoulder doctor Dr. Rehman focuses on relieving pain, reducing inflammation, and improving shoulder mobility. The cornerstone of frozen shoulder treatment involves physical therapy guided by the certified physical therapist at Macomb Hand Surgery. Gentle stretching and mobility exercises gradually restore flexibility and reduce stiffness.
Dr. Rehman also offers ultrasound-guided steroid injections to treat frozen shoulder. By using ultrasound to visualize the joint, the shoulder doctor can deliver medication precisely to the affected area, reducing inflammation and promoting healing. Patients often find that combining injections with therapy offers faster and more lasting relief from frozen shoulder.
Importance of Physical Therapy for Frozen Shoulder
Physical therapy is essential in recovering from frozen shoulder. Under the direction of Dr. Rehman and her team at Macomb Hand Surgery , therapy sessions focus on safe, progressive movement designed to loosen the tight joint capsule. The goal is to restore natural motion while preventing pain flare-ups.
As a board-certified shoulder doctor, Dr. Rehman collaborates closely with her physical therapist to ensure that each patient’s frozen shoulder rehabilitation plan is customized. Consistent exercise and patient dedication are key to regaining full range of motion.
Frozen Shoulder Causes
Frozen shoulder can affect anyone, but it is most common in adults between 40 and 60 years old. Dr. Rehman sees cases of frozen shoulder linked to diabetes, prior shoulder injury, or long periods of immobility following surgery or illness. Hormonal changes, thyroid conditions, and inflammatory diseases may also contribute.
Dr. Rehman, an expert shoulder doctor, educates her patients on how to reduce their risk of frozen shoulder by maintaining flexibility, managing chronic conditions, and seeking care promptly when shoulder pain first appears.
Frozen Shoulder Recovery
Recovery from frozen shoulder takes time and consistent effort. Most patients improve gradually over several months of guided therapy. Shoulder doctor Dr. Rehman emphasizes that patience and persistence are essential, as regaining motion too quickly can worsen inflammation.
At Macomb Hand Surgery, patients benefit from coordinated care that combines medical treatment with targeted exercises. Her approach as a shoulder doctor ensures that every frozen shoulder patient receives comprehensive support from diagnosis through full recovery.
When to Seek Care for Frozen Shoulder
If you’re experiencing stiffness or pain that limits shoulder movement, it’s time to consult a shoulder doctor. Dr. Rehman recommends early evaluation to confirm whether frozen shoulder is the cause. Prompt treatment prevents long-term complications such as joint contracture or chronic pain. Addressing frozen shoulder early allows for smoother recovery and a quicker return to daily activities.
Preventing Frozen Shoulder
Preventing frozen shoulder involves staying active and maintaining shoulder mobility. Dr. Rehman advises her patients to practice gentle stretching, especially after injuries or surgeries that limit movement. Managing underlying conditions like diabetes also lowers risk.
As a dedicated shoulder doctor, Dr. Rehman helps patients understand that early motion and guided therapy are the best defenses against frozen shoulder recurrence. Preventive strategies are an integral part of her patient education and long-term care approach.
Shoulder Doctor | Macomb County
Frozen shoulder can be frustrating and painful, but with expert care, recovery is possible. At Macomb Hand Surgery, board-certified shoulder doctor Dr. Uzma Rehman provides specialized treatment for frozen shoulder that includes ultrasound-guided injections and personalized physical therapy.
If shoulder stiffness or pain is affecting your quality of life, schedule an appointment with shoulder doctor Dr. Rehman in Macomb County today. Her compassionate care, advanced technology, and hands-on approach help patients overcome frozen shoulder and get back to moving freely again.
