
If persistent shoulder stiffness and pain are limiting daily life, arthroscopic capsular release for frozen shoulder in Bangalore can be a highly effective, minimally invasive solution to restore motion and relieve pain, especially when physiotherapy and medications haven’t worked. Frozen shoulder (adhesive capsulitis) involves a thickened and contracted joint capsule that restricts movement; arthroscopic release targets and frees these tight tissues through keyhole incisions to improve range of motion and function.
Best Orthopedic Doctor in Bangalore
At Opera Bone and Joint Clinic, Malleswaram, Dr. Ponnanna K.M—Consultant Orthopaedic and Joint Replacement Surgeon—offers advanced arthroscopic shoulder care, including capsular release for frozen shoulder, with a focus on precise technique, faster recovery, and personalized rehabilitation. His practice emphasizes minimally invasive arthroscopy, patient-centered protocols, and evidence-based pathways to help patients resume daily activities with less pain and better mobility.
What is Arthroscopic Capsular Release?
Arthroscopic capsular release is a keyhole procedure using an arthroscope (camera) and specialized instruments to visualize the shoulder and carefully incise the thickened, contracted capsule, thereby restoring space and movement inside the joint. This targeted release improves elevation and rotation, helping patients regain functional range after conservative care has plateaued.
When is Surgery Considered?
- Persistent pain and stiffness despite non-surgical care such as physiotherapy, medications, and injections.
- Significant limitation in range of motion affecting daily tasks (dressing, reaching, lifting).
- Failure of conservative treatments and functional impairment impacting quality of life.
- Advanced adhesive capsulitis with a “frozen” joint that remains refractory to standard rehabilitation.
Causes and Symptoms of Frozen Shoulder
Common contributors include prior injury or surgery with prolonged immobilization, systemic conditions like diabetes or thyroid disorders, and inflammatory diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis. Symptoms typically evolve gradually: progressive shoulder pain (often worse at night), stiffness, restricted overhead reach and external rotation, and difficulty with routine activities.
How the Procedure Works
Under anesthesia, the surgeon makes small incisions, inserts the arthroscope, and releases tight capsular bands and adhesions to free the joint and restore motion, usually within 1–2 hours depending on severity. Because it’s minimally invasive, patients benefit from smaller incisions, reduced scarring, and a structured pathway to early rehab.
Recovery and Rehabilitation
After surgery, pain control, sling use for comfort, wound care, and rapid initiation of guided physiotherapy are standard. Rehabilitation begins early with gentle range-of-motion work, then progresses to strengthening and flexibility as healing advances. Many patients see significant improvements within 3–6 months, with full recovery potentially taking up to a year depending on individual factors and adherence to therapy.
Benefits and Risks
Benefits include improved range of motion, reduced pain, better function, smaller scars, and typically a shorter recovery than open surgery. Risks—though uncommon with expert technique—can include infection, bleeding, nerve or vessel injury, residual stiffness, anesthesia-related effects, and incomplete symptom resolution requiring further care. A specialist-led plan and diligent physiotherapy minimize complications and optimize outcomes.
Why Choose Dr. Ponnanna K.M?
Dr. Ponnanna K.M provides comprehensive shoulder arthroscopy services, including capsular release, at Opera Bone and Joint Clinic with a strong emphasis on precise surgical execution and customized rehabilitation to achieve durable improvements in mobility and pain relief. The clinic delivers advanced diagnostic and surgical solutions using contemporary techniques in the heart of Malleswaram, making specialized care accessible and patient-focused.
When to Seek Help
If shoulder pain, night discomfort, or stiffness persist despite therapy—or if daily activities remain difficult—timely evaluation helps prevent worsening capsular contracture and supports better surgical and rehabilitation outcomes. Postoperative concerns like swelling, redness, or persistent pain warrant prompt review to maintain smooth recovery and results.
Contact Us
- Dr. Ponnanna K.M – Consultant Orthopaedic Surgeon
- Opera Bone and Joint Clinic, #14, Ground Floor, 4th Main, 6th Cross, Malleswaram, Bangalore – 560003
- Phone: 89515 45276
- Email: dr.ponnanna@gmail.com
- Book or enquire: Contact page