Adhesive capsulitis (frozen shoulder) is a debilitating condition affecting 2–5% of the adult population. Its aetiology is still unclear and there is no consensus on the most effective treatment. The aim of this retrospective study was to investigate the mid-term functional outcome of one specific treatment protocol. Patients with a diagnosis of idiopathic adhesive capsulitis treated by one orthopaedic surgeon between 2004 and 2008 were identified from outpatient clinic letters. All patients had initially received conservative treatment, consisting of physiotherapy with capsular stretches and subacromial injections. Patients in whom conservative treatment failed underwent an arthroscopic capsular release. At a minimum of two years following diagnosis patients were sent the Oxford Shoulder Score (OSS [0 to 48]), Western Ontario Rotator Cuff Index (WORC [0 to 2100]) and a satisfaction questionnaire by post. In addition case notes were reviewed and type of treatment and range of movement (ROM) recorded.Background
Methods
