Frozen Shoulder in Younger Adults? New Treatment Restores Mobility

There’s a new treatment for frozen shoulder! Many middle-aged individuals experience arm pain, weakness, and difficulty raising their arms, which are classic symptoms of frozen shoulder. The pain can be excruciating and significantly disrupt daily life. Traditional treatments, such as physical therapy and painkillers, have long been the go-to options. Now, a revolutionary procedure called the New Shoulder Mobilization Procedure offers an alternative. With only needle-sized wounds, it allows patients to quickly regain shoulder mobility, becoming a promising option for those with frozen shoulder.

Patient Testimonial – Ms. Huang:
"It was so hard to even slowly turn the doorknob," Ms. Huang said. "One time, I leaned against the wall and sneezed. It felt like my arm was being snapped off—it was so painful. I had to rely on my daughter to bathe, dress, and even change clothes."

According to Ms. Huang's family: "She couldn’t lift her arm at all, barely reaching this height. Sometimes, while helping her put on clothes, I’d accidentally pull her arm too much, and she’d cry out in pain."

Sixty-eight-year-old Ms. Huang was diagnosed with frozen shoulder in June last year. Her condition left her unable to care for herself. In October, she sought treatment at Taichung Tzu Chi Hospital.

Dr. Hsieh Shang-Lin, Taichung Tzu Chi Minimally Invasive Spine and Joint Center:
"Under sedative anesthesia, we gradually released the adhesive parts of the shoulder joint. We also injected pain-relieving medications and hyaluronic acid to prevent further adhesions around the joint cavity and soft tissue."

The entire procedure takes just 15 minutes, leaving only tiny needle marks.

Patient Testimonial – Ms. Huang:
"After the anesthesia wore off, Dr. Hsieh and his team told me to lift my arm. I could immediately raise it! Now I can even do this!" Ms. Huang shared her happiness and satisfaction with the treatment, smiling throughout the interview.

Ms. Huang added: "Dr. Hsieh is so kind. I told him, 'You need to take care of yourself because you’re the pillar of support for us elderly patients.'"

Dr. Hsieh Shang-Lin:
"When lifting forward, her range of motion is excellent."

Frozen shoulder often occurs in people aged 50–60 due to chronic inflammation around the shoulder joint capsule, eventually leading to tissue stiffness and limited movement. Traditional treatments, such as medication and physical therapy, are common, but if there’s no improvement after three months, the New Shoulder Mobilization Procedure may be worth considering to restore mobility and quality of life.

Reporters: Jiang Li-Chun, Liu Bo-Ming, Taichung News Report