What is the fastest and most effective method for treating shoulder periarthritis?

Jul 10, 2024 Source: Cainiu Health
Disease description:

My shoulder is in severe pain, and I don't know how to treat it. Doctor, what is the fastest and most effective method for treating shoulder periarthritis?

Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Xu Shuai
Periarthritis of the shoulder, also known as frozen shoulder, is characterized by pain and restricted movement due to inflammation of the tissues surrounding the shoulder joint, such as tendons, bursae, and the rotator cuff. Below are some quick and effective treatment options: 1. **Physical therapy**: A professional physiotherapist can guide you through gentle stretching and strengthening exercises for the shoulder to gradually restore the joint's range of motion. 2. **Cold and heat application**: Applying ice in the early stages can help reduce swelling and pain, while applying heat later may promote blood circulation and relax the muscles. 3. **Medication**: Over-the-counter nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen, can relieve pain and reduce inflammation. In more severe cases, doctors may prescribe stronger medications or muscle relaxants. 4. **Intra-articular injection**: If the pain is severe, doctors may recommend an injection of corticosteroids directly into the shoulder joint to rapidly reduce inflammation. 5. **Acupuncture or massage**: These traditional therapies may sometimes help alleviate pain and promote recovery. 6. **Surgery**: In rare cases where conservative treatments fail, surgery (such as arthroscopic surgery) may be required to release the adhesions in the shoulder joint capsule.