A Comprehensive Update of Adhesive Capsulitis and Minimally Invasive Treatment Options

Abstract

Background: Adhesive capsulitis of the shoulder (AC) is characterized by fibrosis and contracture of the glenohumeral joint capsule, resulting in progressive stiffness, pain, and restriction of motion of the shoulder. The prevalence of AC is estimated to be 2-5% of the general population. Patients with AC typically have an insidious onset of pain and can progress to severe limitation of the shoulder leading to significant disability and decreased quality of life.

Objectives: The objective of this manuscript is to provide a comprehensive review of AC with a focus on clinical presentation, natural history, pathophysiology, and various treatment modalities.

Study design: A review article.

Setting: A review of literature.

Methods: A search was made on the Pubmed database using the keywords of adhesive capsulitis, frozen shoulder, shoulder capsulitis, arthrofibrosis, shoulder pain, shoulder stiffness.

Results: Our search identified numerous studies in order to provide a comprehensive review of the current understanding of the treatment and management of AC.

Limitations: There remains limited evidence in literature about the understanding of AC and optimal treatment.

Conclusion: AC is an important cause of chronic pain and disability. There is currently no consensus on treatment. Initial treatment modalities revolve around conservative measures as well as aggressive physical therapy. Further treatment options include intraarticular injections, hydro-dilation, nerve blocks, and for more refractory cases, surgical interventions such as arthroscopic capsulotomy.

Keywords: adhesive capsulitis; frozen shoulder; minimally invasive treatment.