Surgery to Release the Capsule in Frozen Shoulder

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Shoulder and elbow surgery – all treatments

We offer surgery involving capsular release for frozen shoulder

Frozen shoulder is a condition in which the shoulder’s joint capsule becomes thickened and tight, causing pain and reduced range of motion. The condition often develops gradually and can make it difficult to perform ordinary daily activities. If the symptoms do not improve with physical therapy, pain medication, or other non-surgical treatments, surgery may be the right solution.

Symptoms and treatment

Frozen shoulder typically causes pain and gradually increasing stiffness in the shoulder. If the symptoms persist and affect your daily life, surgery to release the joint capsule may be recommended. During the procedure, the tight joint capsule is loosened using arthroscopic surgery to improve the shoulder’s range of motion. About 90% of patients experience less pain and increased range of motion after surgery.

Patient information

Capsular release surgery for frozen shoulder

Before the surgery, you will be examined by a specialist who will assess your symptoms and the range of motion in your shoulder. If a frozen shoulder has not improved with nonsurgical treatment, surgery to release the capsule may be the right solution. During the preoperative evaluation, the surgeon will explain the procedure and the expected course of treatment.

The surgery is most often performed as arthroscopic surgery, in which the tight joint capsule is loosened through 2–3 small incisions around the shoulder. The shoulder is then gently moved in several directions to ensure that range of motion has improved. The procedure is performed under general anesthesia.

Most patients experience less pain and improved range of motion after surgery. A good outcome also depends on starting rehabilitation quickly and following the prescribed regimen. As a general rule, you should start moving your shoulder as early as the day after surgery to prevent stiffness from returning. About 90% of patients experience less pain and increased range of motion after surgery.