From the Research
Arthroscopic taper release surgery can be an effective treatment for frozen shoulder, even after 2½ years, with significant improvement in pain relief and range of motion, as supported by the most recent study 1 from 2019. This procedure involves surgically cutting the thickened joint capsule to restore range of motion. For long-standing cases like yours, the surgery can still provide significant improvement, though complete restoration of motion may be more challenging than in earlier-stage cases. Before considering surgery, ensure you've exhausted conservative treatments including physical therapy, corticosteroid injections, and possibly hydrodilatation, as recommended by studies 2 and 3. The typical recovery involves immediate post-operative physical therapy and can take 3-6 months for maximum benefit. Surgery is generally more effective for pain relief than for complete motion restoration, with success rates varying based on individual factors such as age, diabetes status, pre-operative motion limitations, and commitment to rehabilitation, as noted in studies 4 and 5. Your specific outcome will depend on these factors, so it's essential to discuss your case details with your orthopedic surgeon to receive personalized guidance based on your medical history and shoulder condition. Key factors to consider include:
- The stage of your frozen shoulder
- Your overall health and medical history
- The effectiveness of previous conservative treatments
- Your commitment to post-operative rehabilitation, as emphasized by the study 1. By considering these factors and discussing your options with your orthopedic surgeon, you can make an informed decision about whether arthroscopic taper release surgery is right for you.