Frozen Shoulder Treatment in Pompano Beach, Florida

Corticosteroid Injection Therapy

Steroid injections provide targeted anti-inflammatory treatment directly within the shoulder joint. Dr. Pham performs these injections using precise ultrasound guidance to ensure accurate medication placement.

The corticosteroid reduces capsular inflammation and decreases pain levels significantly. This pain reduction creates an optimal window for physical therapy participation. Most patients experience improved comfort within 48 to 72 hours following injection.

Injection timing proves critical for treatment success. Early-stage frozen shoulder responds most favorably to corticosteroid therapy. Dr. Pham evaluates each patient's condition before recommending injection treatment.

Side effects remain minimal when injections are performed properly. Some patients experience temporary pain increase immediately following the procedure. This discomfort typically resolves within 24 hours as the medication takes effect.

Heat and Cold Therapy Applications

Thermal therapy provides accessible pain relief that patients can perform at home. Heat applications work best for chronic stiffness and muscle tension. Cold therapy proves more effective for acute inflammation and pain episodes.

Heat therapy increases blood flow to the affected tissues and promotes muscle relaxation. Patients apply heating pads or warm compresses for 15 to 20 minutes several times daily. Moist heat penetrates deeper than dry heat applications.

Cold therapy reduces inflammation and numbs pain sensations. Ice packs applied for 10 to 15 minutes provide relief during pain flares. Patients should avoid direct ice contact with skin to prevent tissue damage.

Alternating heat and cold applications can provide synergistic benefits. This contrast therapy stimulates circulation while reducing inflammation. Dr. Pham provides specific protocols based on individual patient needs.

Physical Therapy and Exercise Programs

Targeted Movement Restoration

Range of motion exercises form the cornerstone of frozen shoulder rehabilitation. These exercises systematically address specific movement limitations while respecting tissue healing constraints.

Passive range of motion exercises begin the rehabilitation process. A therapist or family member moves the affected arm through available ranges without patient muscle activation. This approach prevents muscle guarding while maintaining joint mobility.

Active-assisted exercises transition patients toward independent movement. Patients provide some muscle effort while receiving external support. This progression builds strength while improving range of motion safely.

Active range of motion exercises represent the final rehabilitation phase. Patients perform movements independently without external assistance. These exercises restore functional movement patterns necessary for daily activities.

Home Exercise Protocol

Pendulum exercises utilize gravity to promote gentle joint movement. Patients lean forward and allow the affected arm to hang freely. Small circular motions help lubricate the joint while reducing stiffness.

Wall sliding exercises improve overhead reach capacity. Patients face a wall and slowly walk their fingers upward as far as comfortable. This exercise specifically targets forward flexion limitations.

Towel stretches address internal rotation restrictions. Patients hold a towel behind their back and use the unaffected arm to pull the affected arm upward. This exercise improves behind-the-back reaching ability.

Cross-body stretches target external rotation limitations. Patients use the unaffected arm to pull the affected arm across the chest. This movement pattern improves reaching across the body.