Are you seeking non-surgical shoulder pain relief? From frozen shoulder to rotator cuff injuries, there’s no shortage of painful shoulder conditions. At MAPS Centers for Pain Control, we offer high-quality, minimally invasive treatments designed to provide long-term relief. One of our top treatments is cryoneurolysis, an innovative method that involves freezing nerves to reduce pain. In this blog, we’ll take a closer look at cryoneurolysis treatment, including how it works and its benefits for chronic shoulder pain.
What Causes Shoulder Pain and How Does It Affect Daily Life?
Did you know that around 70% of people will experience shoulder pain at some point during their lives? Shoulder pain can be caused by a wide range of conditions, including the following:
- Arthritis: Over time, the cartilage that cushions your shoulder joint may wear down, leading to pain and a reduced range of motion.
- Bursitis: This condition occurs when the bursa — a small, fluid-filled sac that cushions your shoulder joint — becomes inflamed. It’s typically linked to overuse or repetitive motion.
- Dislocation: Shoulder dislocation happens when your upper arm bone pops out of your shoulder (usually after trauma or a fall).
- Frozen shoulder: Also known as adhesive capsulitis, this condition is characterized by the thickening and tightening of the connective tissue around your shoulder joint. Risk factors include being over the age of 40 and having certain medical conditions.
- Rotator cuff injury: The rotator cuff is a group of muscles and tendons that stabilize the shoulder. Anything from inflammation to tears can injure this area.
What Is Cryoneurolysis and How Does It Work for Shoulder Pain?
When it comes to treating shoulder pain, many people turn to at-home methods such as ice or heat packs. While these tools can help with minor injuries, serious ones typically require more hands-on intervention. That’s where cryoneurolysis treatment comes in.
This treatment harnesses the power of freezing cold temperatures to disable nerves that transmit pain signals. First, a small probe is inserted near the shoulder joint (or, more specifically, near the nerves). Once in place, the probe delivers bursts of cold to disrupt nerve function, preventing pain signals from reaching the brain. Not only is cryoneurolysis minimally invasive, but it can also help with a variety of conditions, including arthritis, rotator cuff injuries and frozen shoulder syndrome.
What Are the Benefits of Cryoneurolysis for Shoulder Pain Relief?
Along with relieving chronic shoulder pain, cryoneurolysis treatment offers the following benefits:
- Reduced inflammation: By calming overactive nerves, cryoneurolysis can help lower the body’s inflammatory response in the affected area. Reduced inflammation translates to less swelling, decreased stiffness and improved joint comfort.
- Restored mobility: Cryoneurolysis manages pain and inflammation, which in turn helps people regain motion and move their shoulders more freely.
- Increased joint strength: When combined with physical therapy, cryoneurolysis can help build joint strength, reducing the risk of recurring injuries.
Frequently Asked Questions About Cryoneurolysis
Here are some commonly asked questions about cryoneurolysis treatment.
Is cryoneurolysis safe?
Yes, cryoneurolysis is a safe, effective alternative to surgery. Because it’s minimally invasive, patients usually experience minimal (if any) side effects. Most patients can return to their regular routine immediately after treatment.
How long does cryoneurolysis take?
The procedure time can vary depending on the exact condition that’s being treated and the extent of pain. However, most procedures generally take between 15 and 45 minutes.
How long do cryoneurolysis results last?
The results of treatment vary from patient to patient. Many people start experiencing relief immediately or within a few days, and the results can last over six months.
What conditions can cryoneurolysis treat?
Cryoneurolysis can treat a wide range of pain conditions, including shoulder pain. It can be an effective rotator cuff injury and frozen shoulder treatment for people who haven’t seen results from other methods.
What Other Pain Management Options Are Available for Shoulder Pain?
Looking for expert pain management in Chicago? At MAPS, we offer a variety of non-surgical shoulder pain relief treatments. In addition to cryoneurolysis, we provide the following options:
- Injection-based therapy (including epidural, trigger point and cortisone injections)
- Alternative medicine (including hyaluronic acid and growth factor injections)
- Minimally invasive procedures (including radiofrequency ablation and spinal cord stimulator implantation)
- Responsible medication management
- Physical therapy
- Bracing and supports
If you’re unsure which treatment options are right for you, our team can help.
How Can MAPS Centers for Pain Control Help You Find Shoulder Pain Relief?
Nobody deserves to suffer from shoulder pain. At MAPS, we’re committed to helping patients regain function and achieve lasting relief through advanced interventional treatments. Our team of double-board certified doctors is highly experienced in non-surgical treatments, including cryoneurolysis. After considering your unique symptoms and condition, we’ll craft a personalized plan tailored to your needs. Schedule your appointment today!