What immediate actions are most effective when frozen shoulder symptoms first appear?

When frozen shoulder symptoms first appear, the most effective immediate actions are:

1. Recognize the symptoms quickly—sudden shoulder pain without injury, followed by stiffness.
2. Keep your shoulder moving as much as possible. Avoid the instinct to rest it completely, as immobility can worsen the condition.
3. Seek help from a physical therapist right away to maintain mobility and prevent further stiffness.
4. Consider consulting your healthcare provider about hormone therapy, especially if you are in perimenopause or menopause, as estrogen replacement has been shown to lower the incidence of frozen shoulder.
5. If pain is severe and limits movement, a steroid injection may help reduce inflammation and allow you to participate in physical therapy.
6. In some cases, platelet-rich plasma injections may be considered for their anti-inflammatory effects.

At Alloy, we offer expert guidance on hormone therapy and menopause-related joint issues. You can learn more about frozen shoulder onset and management in these helpful video chapters:

• Frozen Shoulder Onset
• Treatment and Management

If you are interested in exploring hormone therapy options, visit our Menopause Hormone Therapy product page for more information.

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This answer was created using the following resources:

• HOW TO TREAT FROZEN SHOULDER in perimenopause/menopause.
• What is Frozen Shoulder? - Treatment and Management
• Ask Dr. Vonda Wright: How Menopause Affects Your Muscles, Bones & Joints | Dr. Vonda Wright - Frozen Shoulder & Musculoskeletal Symptoms
• How to Stay Strong in Menopause & Beyond | Dr. Vonda Wright - Frozen Shoulder: Causes and Treatment