If you’ve been struggling with shoulder pain, stiffness, and limited range of motion that seems to be getting worse over time, you may be dealing with frozen shoulder, also known as adhesive capsulitis. This frustrating condition can affect your ability to perform daily activities like reaching overhead, dressing, or even sleeping comfortably. At Inertia Medical, we specialize in non-surgical orthopedic care, helping patients across Cincinnati, West Chester, Liberty Township, and Fairfield find relief and recover function through advanced, personalized treatments.
What is Frozen Shoulder?
Frozen shoulder is a condition in which the connective tissue capsule around the shoulder joint becomes inflamed and thickened, causing the shoulder to become painful and stiff. Over time, the joint may “freeze,” severely restricting movement and making everyday tasks difficult or even impossible.
The condition typically develops in three stages:
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Freezing Stage: Pain increases gradually, and shoulder movement becomes limited.
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Frozen Stage: Pain may decrease, but stiffness and limited motion persist.
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Thawing Stage: Range of motion begins to improve slowly, often over several months.
The entire process can take 6 months to 2 years to resolve without proper treatment.
Common Symptoms of Frozen Shoulder
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Dull or aching pain in the outer shoulder and upper arm
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Stiffness and decreased range of motion
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Pain that worsens at night
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Difficulty reaching behind your back or lifting your arm overhead
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Gradual progression of symptoms over time
What Causes Frozen Shoulder?
While the exact cause isn’t always clear, frozen shoulder is often triggered by immobility or inflammation of the shoulder joint. Risk factors include:
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Shoulder injury or surgery
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Rotator cuff injuries
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Diabetes (significantly increases risk)
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Thyroid disorders
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Autoimmune diseases
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Prolonged immobility (such as after a stroke or fracture)
Women aged 40–60 are particularly at risk, and it commonly affects only one shoulder—though it can occur in both.
How We Treat Frozen Shoulder at Inertia Medical
At Inertia Medical, our non-surgical orthopedic team offers a comprehensive and personalized approach to treating frozen shoulder, helping patients regain motion, reduce pain, and avoid invasive procedures.
1. Targeted Physical Therapy
A customized rehabilitation plan is crucial for improving shoulder mobility and reducing stiffness. Our team collaborates with experienced physical therapists to guide you through:
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Stretching exercises
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Range-of-motion training
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Strength-building movements to restore function gradually
2. Anti-Inflammatory Injections
Corticosteroid injections can help reduce inflammation and pain in the early stages. These are often ultrasound-guided for precise delivery into the joint capsule.
3. Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) Therapy
PRP uses your own blood-derived growth factors to promote healing and reduce inflammation. This regenerative treatment may speed up recovery and support tissue repair in patients with chronic shoulder stiffness.
4. Joint Hydrodilation (Saline Distension)
In some cases, injecting a sterile saline solution into the shoulder joint under ultrasound guidance can help stretch the capsule and improve range of motion.
5. Home Exercise Plans and Education
Our team provides clear instructions and support for continued progress at home, ensuring that your recovery continues between clinic visits.
Why Choose Inertia Medical for Frozen Shoulder Care?
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Non-Surgical Solutions First: We specialize in effective, non-invasive treatment strategies.
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Expertise in Shoulder Conditions: Our providers have advanced training in diagnosing and treating shoulder injuries.
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Ultrasound-Guided Procedures: Ensures precise, effective injections with less discomfort and better results.
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Integrated Approach: We collaborate closely with physical therapists and provide comprehensive care to maximize your recovery.
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Trusted by the Community: Patients across Cincinnati and the surrounding area choose us for expert care and lasting relief.
Real Patient Experiences
“I couldn’t lift my arm without pain for months. The team at Inertia Medical helped me get back to full motion with injections and therapy—it changed my life!” – Mike, Cincinnati
“I was told I might need surgery, but Inertia Medical created a personalized plan that helped me avoid it. I’m back to yoga and sleeping through the night.” – Sarah, West Chester
“They took the time to explain every step and made me feel confident throughout my treatment. My shoulder is nearly back to normal!” – Amanda, Liberty Township
Schedule Your Frozen Shoulder Consultation Today
Don’t let shoulder pain and stiffness hold you back. If you think you may have frozen shoulder, Inertia Medical is here to help. We offer expert, non-surgical care to reduce pain, restore function, and get you moving again. Contact us today to schedule your consultation at our Cincinnati, West Chester, Liberty Township, or Fairfield location.