Frozen shoulder treatment : Adhesive Capsulitis Embolization

Adhesive Capsulitis Embolization : a non surgical, minimally invasive procedure

Traditional treatments for frozen shoulder include physical therapy, anti-inflammatory medications, steroid injections, and in severe cases, surgery. However, a novel and minimally invasive treatment option known as embolization has shown promise in managing frozen shoulder symptoms, particularly in reducing pain and inflammation.

Procedure of Embolization for the frozen shoulder condition

1. Pre-procedure Evaluation: A thorough evaluation, including imaging tests such as MRI or ultrasound, is conducted to assess the extent of inflammation and the condition of the shoulder joint. This step is crucial in identifying the exact blood vessels that need to be targeted during the procedure.
2. The Embolization Process:

– The procedure is typically performed under local anesthesia.

– A small catheter is inserted through a tiny incision, usually in the groin area, and guided to the blood vessels supplying the shoulder joint using imaging techniques.

– Microscopic particles or coils are then introduced through the catheter to block these blood vessels, reducing blood flow to the inflamed tissues.

Advantages of shoulder embolization : ACE

Non-surgical precision for shoulder pain

ACE offers a targeted approach for alleviating shoulder pain. It presents a safe and effective non-surgical option with fewer risks than invasive procedures.

Minimally invasive comfort

The non-surgical nature of ACE ensures comfort in the treatment process. It allows for a smoother recovery and less disruption to daily life.

Outpatient convenience in pain reduction

ACE’s outpatient nature adds convenience to the pain reduction journey. It allows patients to undergo the procedure without an extended hospital stay.

Low risk

With its low-risk profile, ACE becomes an accessible option for individuals dealing with joint issues. It is not limited to severe cases. ACE can be used for various inflammatory conditions.

Scarless outcome for joint well-being

ACE is beneficial because it doesn’t leave scars and helps joints. It looks good and improves joint function.

Swift recovery for overall mobility

ACE’s emphasis on a swift recovery aligns with the goal of restoring overall mobility. It’s like fast-forwarding the recovery process.

Enhanced quality of life amidst joint challenges

By combining these advantages, ACE contributes to an enhanced quality of life for individuals navigating joint challenges. It offers relief from pain and discomfort while minimizing the physical and emotional toll associated with more invasive treatments.

Understanding Frozen Shoulder (Adhesive Capsulitis)

Frozen shoulder, medically known as adhesive capsulitis, is a condition characterized by pain, stiffness, and limited range of motion in the shoulder joint. This condition typically progresses in stages and can severely impact daily activities, making it difficult to perform tasks that involve shoulder movement, such as reaching overhead, putting on clothes, or even brushing your hair.

The condition occurs when the connective tissue surrounding the shoulder joint thickens and tightens, restricting movement. This connective tissue, known as the shoulder capsule, normally allows for smooth and wide-ranging motion. However, in frozen shoulder, the capsule becomes inflamed and scar tissue forms, leading to the characteristic pain and stiffness.

What causes a shoulder to freeze (Frozen shoulder) ?

The exact cause of frozen shoulder is not fully understood, but several factors are known to contribute to its development:

1. Injury or Surgery: A shoulder injury, such as a rotator cuff tear, or surgery that requires immobilization of the shoulder for an extended period, can lead to frozen shoulder. When the shoulder remains immobilized for a long time, the lack of movement can cause the connective tissue to thicken and tighten, leading to pain and stiffness.
2. Chronic Conditions: Certain chronic conditions, such as diabetes, thyroid disorders, cardiovascular disease, and Parkinson’s disease, are associated with a higher risk of developing frozen shoulder. For instance, people with diabetes are more likely to experience this condition, though the exact reason for this increased risk is not clear.
3. Age and Gender: Frozen shoulder is most common in people aged 40 to 60, with a higher prevalence in women than men. The likelihood of developing frozen shoulder increases with age, and it is more frequently diagnosed in women, possibly due to hormonal differences.

4. Immobility: Lack of movement or immobilization of the shoulder, whether due to an injury, surgery, or other reasons, can lead to the thickening and tightening of the joint capsule, resulting in a frozen shoulder. Even conditions that cause shoulder pain and lead to reduced movement, such as arthritis, can contribute to the development of frozen shoulder.

Symptoms of Frozen Shoulder or adhesive capsulitis

Frozen shoulder typically develops gradually and progresses through three distinct stages. Each stage presents unique symptoms and challenges:

1. Freezing Stage:

– Duration: This stage can last from six weeks to nine months.

– Symptoms: During the freezing stage, pain in the shoulder gradually increases, making it increasingly difficult to move your arm. The pain is often worse at night and can be quite severe, particularly when attempting to move your shoulder. As the pain intensifies, the range of shoulder motion begins to decrease. Many people find it challenging to move their shoulder in certain directions, which leads to further stiffness.

2. Frozen Stage:

– Duration: This stage may last from four to six months.

– Symptoms: In the frozen stage, the pain may start to decrease, but the stiffness in the shoulder increases significantly. The range of motion becomes severely limited, and simple tasks like reaching behind your back or lifting your arm become nearly impossible. Although the pain might lessen, the shoulder remains stiff and moving the shoulder is difficult.

3. Thawing Stage:

– Duration: The thawing stage can last from six months to two years.

– Symptoms: Gradual improvement in the range of motion occurs during this stage, and the shoulder begins to return to normal function. However, full recovery can take a long time, and some patients may not regain their precondition range of motion. Physical therapy is often recommended during this stage to help restore shoulder movement.