Q1: What is frozen shoulder, and what causes it?
Frozen shoulder, or adhesive capsulitis, is a condition where the shoulder joint becomes stiff and painful, limiting movement. It may result from injury, prolonged immobility, diabetes, or inflammation. Symptoms include difficulty lifting the arm, reaching behind the back, or performing daily tasks.

Q2: What are the main treatment options for frozen shoulder?
Treatment typically includes:

• Physiotherapy and guided exercises to improve mobility

• Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) for pain relief

• Hot therapy or ultrasound therapy to reduce stiffness

• Corticosteroid injections in some cases

These methods aim to reduce pain, restore range of motion, and avoid surgery.

Q3: When should I consider getting an MRI for frozen shoulder?
MRI is recommended if:

• Pain persists despite several weeks of therapy

• Movement is severely restricted

• There is suspicion of underlying rotator cuff tears, tendon injury, or labral damage

MRI provides high-resolution, radiation-free imaging of tendons, ligaments, cartilage, and shoulder structures, confirming diagnosis and guiding targeted treatment.

Q4: Why not rely solely on X-ray, CT, or ultrasound?

• X-rays: Show only bone structure, missing soft tissue problems.

• CT scans: Limited for tendons, ligaments, and cartilage.

• Ultrasound: May miss deep rotator cuff or labral injuries.

MRI is superior because it offers comprehensive imaging of all shoulder structures without radiation, ensuring precise diagnosis.

Q5: Where can I get a fast and affordable MRI for frozen shoulder in Singapore?
The Pain Relief Clinic provides insurance and Medisave claimable MRI scans under $1,000, completed within 1 working day. Combined with non-surgical therapies like guided exercises, hot therapy, and physiotherapy, this approach helps restore shoulder mobility safely and effectively.