Frozen Shoulder Manipulation
Frozen shoulder
I first noticed a problem with my left shoulder during a house move in June 2007. There was also a shooting pain when I made certain movements with my left arm. Eventually I was unable to drive and it made my day to day life very difficult. I went to my chiropractor but it failed to improve and she suggested I visit my GP. When I saw my GP in August 2007 he gave me an injection into the shoulder area. There was no improvement and I was referred to the shoulder clinic at Capio. I saw Mr. Levy in September and after an xray, ultrasound and examination he diagnosed a frozen shoulder. He informed me that it could take a year or longer to improve naturally and that the alternative was an arthroscopic manipulation under anaesthetic. This would free the shoulder and with exercise I would regain flexibility and strength. As well as an anaesthetic they would use a nerve block. I decided to go ahead with the operation as I wanted to be able to drive and carry on with my normal life as soon as possible. Also I felt that the muscle tone in my arm had deteriorated with lack of use. I had started to hold my arm in a protective position to prevent the pain and this resulted in me feeling that my balance was affected when walking.
The day before the operation I attended the Capio hospital for pre operation tests. These included a blood test, E.C.G, urine sample and blood pressure reading. On the 10thOctober I arrived at Capio at 7 am with several other bleary eyed patients. I was taken to my room and settled in by the kind and efficient staff. The anaesthetist and surgeon explained the procedure and I was taken to theatre at about 1 oclock. The next thing I remember is waking up and the procedure was over. If a nerve block is used it leaves your arm feeling numb which is a strange sensation but not painful. The numbness wore off within 24 hours. A physiotherapist visited me and gave me a sheet of exercises to start immediately. He emphasised the necessity of following these exercises in order to ensure the procedure was successful. After a light meal Mr. Levy came to see me and my husband was able to take me home.
The next day I had my first session with a physiotherapist. She took me through the exercises and did some massage on my shoulder. It is important to keep taking the painkillers prescribed for these sessions. I had about five sessions with the physiotherapist as well as doing the exercises at home. I was advised to continue the exercises for at least six weeks and I cannot emphasise strongly enough how important they are to the success of the operation.
I had two appointments with Mr. Levy after the operation one after three weeks and then after three months. I am delighted with the results and am driving again and there is full flexibility in my shoulder and my arm is getting stronger.
Janet Dow
You will need the Adobe Reader to view and print these documents. 