You Need To Consider Doing This If Your Frozen Shoulder Is Not Improving With TCM Treatment

Frozen shoulder, also known as adhesive capsulitis, is a condition that causes stiffness and pain in the shoulder joint, making it difficult to move the arm. The pain can range from mild to severe, and as the condition progresses, the shoulder becomes increasingly stiff, severely restricting motion. For many, frozen shoulder can make everyday tasks like reaching overhead, lifting objects, or even dressing yourself incredibly challenging.

This condition can affect your work performance, sports activities, and overall quality of life. The constant discomfort and lack of mobility can also have a significant emotional toll, leaving you feeling frustrated and helpless as you search for a solution.

TCM: A Popular Approach to Treating Frozen Shoulder

Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) is a common treatment approach in Singapore for managing conditions like frozen shoulder. TCM therapies such as acupuncture, cupping therapy, herbal medicine, and tui na massage are often used to relieve pain, improve circulation, and restore mobility to the shoulder joint. Many people find that TCM can provide relief from the pain and stiffness associated with frozen shoulder, helping to ease the discomfort and improve overall function.

However, while TCM can be effective for many, there are instances when it may not provide the lasting results you need, especially if the underlying cause of your frozen shoulder hasn’t been properly diagnosed. Without a clear understanding of the root cause of the pain, treatments may only address the symptoms temporarily, rather than targeting the actual problem.

Why Getting a Clear Diagnosis Is Crucial

Frozen shoulder can be caused by a number of factors, and understanding the underlying cause is key to finding an effective solution. Here are five common causes of frozen shoulder:

1. Inflammation – Inflammation in the shoulder joint can lead to pain and stiffness, making it difficult to move the arm.
2. Rotator Cuff Injuries – Tears or damage to the rotator cuff tendons can cause pain and limit movement in the shoulder.
3. Post-Surgical or Post-Traumatic Stiffness – After surgery or an injury to the shoulder, the joint may become stiff as it heals, leading to frozen shoulder.
4. Diabetes – People with diabetes are more prone to developing frozen shoulder due to changes in the tissues around the shoulder joint.
5. Shoulder Immobilization – Prolonged immobility after an injury or surgery can result in the shoulder joint becoming stiff and developing frozen shoulder.

In addition to these common causes, there are two less common but potentially serious causes of frozen shoulder:

1. Infections – Infections in or around the shoulder joint can lead to pain, swelling, and stiffness, requiring immediate medical attention.
2. Underlying Medical Conditions – Conditions such as thyroid disorders, cardiovascular issues, or neurological diseases can contribute to the development of frozen shoulder.

The Need for Imaging to Get a Precise Diagnosis

It’s important to note that frozen shoulder cannot be accurately diagnosed based on physical symptoms or examination alone. Imaging techniques such as X-rays, MRIs, or ultrasounds are essential to identifying the underlying cause. These imaging tools allow healthcare providers to get a clear view of the shoulder joint, tendons, and muscles, helping them to understand the precise source of the pain and stiffness.

The Pain Relief Clinic: Your Partner in Finding a Clear Diagnosis

At The Pain Relief Clinic, we have over a decade of experience helping people with frozen shoulder. We take a non-invasive approach to diagnosing the root cause of your pain and creating a personalized treatment plan. If you’re struggling with frozen shoulder and haven’t found lasting relief, we can arrange for affordable scans, typically within one working day. Medisave can often be used to help cover the cost of these scans, making the process more affordable.

We also assist with insurance claims, including accident insurance, travel insurance, and company insurance, ensuring you have access to the care you need without added financial stress.

Once we have a clear diagnosis, we can offer targeted treatments to address the root cause of your frozen shoulder, helping to restore mobility and alleviate the pain.

Ready to take the next step? Send us a message today to arrange an appointment and start your journey toward lasting relief from frozen shoulder.

Let me know if you’d like to make any adjustments or if you’re ready to move on to another blog post!