Shoulder Pain: Why Does My Mom's Frozen Shoulder Hurt After Treatment? - Rehabilitation

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Frozen shoulder, or adhesive capsulitis, is a condition characterized by stiffness and pain in the shoulder joint. It often occurs in three stages: freezing, frozen, and thawing. The pain and discomfort your mother is experiencing after treatment can be attributed to several factors related to the nature of the condition and the treatment itself.

Firstly, the injection your mother received is likely a corticosteroid, which is commonly used to reduce inflammation and pain in the shoulder joint. While corticosteroids can provide significant relief, they can also lead to temporary discomfort or soreness at the injection site. This is a normal reaction and usually subsides within a few days. Additionally, the injection may have caused some irritation to the surrounding tissues, contributing to the soreness.

Secondly, physical therapy and rehabilitation exercises are crucial components of treating frozen shoulder. However, these exercises can sometimes lead to increased pain, especially if the shoulder is already inflamed or if the exercises are too aggressive. After a period of immobility due to pain, the shoulder muscles and connective tissues can become tight and sensitive. When movement is reintroduced, it can lead to temporary discomfort as the body adjusts to the increased activity. This is often referred to as "post-exercise soreness" and is a common occurrence in rehabilitation settings.

Moreover, the "frozen" stage of frozen shoulder is characterized by significant stiffness and limited range of motion. When the shoulder is mobilized, it can provoke pain due to the stretching of the tight capsule and surrounding muscles. This discomfort is a part of the healing process, as the goal of treatment is to gradually restore mobility and function to the shoulder.

It is also essential to consider that each individual's response to treatment can vary. Some patients may experience more pronounced soreness than others, depending on their pain tolerance, the severity of the condition, and the specific treatment modalities used.
To manage the soreness your mother is experiencing, here are a few recommendations:
1. Rest and Ice: Applying ice to the shoulder for 15-20 minutes can help reduce inflammation and numb the area, providing relief from soreness.

2. Gentle Range of Motion Exercises: Encourage her to perform gentle stretching and range of motion exercises as advised by her physical therapist. These should be done within a pain-free range to avoid exacerbating the soreness.

3. Pain Management: Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, can help alleviate discomfort. However, she should consult her physician before taking any medication.

4. Follow-Up with the Physician: If the soreness persists or worsens, it is crucial to follow up with her physician or physical therapist. They can assess her condition and adjust her treatment plan as necessary.

5. Patience and Consistency: Recovery from frozen shoulder can take time, and it is essential to be patient with the process. Consistent rehabilitation efforts, even when discomfort arises, are key to achieving long-term improvement.

In conclusion, while it is concerning to see your mother in pain after treatment, it is not uncommon for patients with frozen shoulder to experience increased soreness following injections and physical therapy. Understanding the nature of her condition and the treatment process can help alleviate some of the worries. Encourage her to communicate openly with her healthcare providers about her symptoms, as they can offer tailored advice and support throughout her recovery journey.