Can arthroscopy treat a frozen shoulder?

Yes, shoulder arthroscopy can be used to treat a frozen shoulder in selected patients, but it is usually not the first treatment. Most people are initially treated with pain relief, physiotherapy, stretching exercises, and sometimes injections. Frozen shoulder often improves gradually, although recovery can take many months.

Surgery may be considered when severe stiffness and pain continue despite an adequate period of non-surgical treatment. During arthroscopic capsular release, the surgeon inserts a small camera and specialised instruments through small incisions around the shoulder. Tight portions of the joint capsule are carefully released to improve movement. In some cases, arthroscopy may be combined with manipulation under anaesthesia, in which the shoulder is gently moved while the patient is asleep.

The movement gained during surgery must be maintained with physiotherapy. Exercises usually begin soon after the procedure because the shoulder can become stiff again if movement is not continued. Recovery commonly takes several weeks to a few months and varies with the severity of stiffness, diabetes, and commitment to rehabilitation. Dr. Atul Mishra evaluates shoulder movement, symptoms, previous treatment, and imaging before deciding whether arthroscopic release is suitable.