Author(s): Kaushik Guha

Abstract:
Adhesive capsulitis and frozen shoulder syndrome (FSS) are two terms that have been used to describe a painful and stiff shoulder. The current consensus definition of a frozen shoulder by the American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons is "a condition of uncertain etiology characterized by significant restriction of both active and passive shoulder motion that occurs in the absence of a known intrinsic shoulder disorder." The American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons defines this condition as: "A condition of varying severity characterized by the gradual development of global limitation of active and passive shoulder motion where radiographic findings other than osteopenia are absent. The loss of passive range of motion (ROM) is a critical element in establishing the diagnosis of a true frozen shoulder. Although conditions such as sub acromial bursitis, calcifying tendinitis, and partial rotator cuff tears can be associated with significant pain and loss of active ROM, passive ROM is preserved. There is no consensus on how the best way best to manage patients with this condition, so I want to provide an evidence-based overview regarding the effectiveness of shoulder mobilization, electrotherapy and exercise therapy in physiotherapy to treat adhesive capsulitis.

Pages: 12-16  |  1389 Views  547 Downloads

Download Full Article: Click Here