Dynamic Splinting for Patients With Adhesive Capsulitis

Outcomes Following Dynamic Splinting and/or Physical Therapy for Patients With Adhesive Capsulitis

The purpose of this study is to compare two treatments for adhesive capsulitis.

The purpose of this study is to examine the effects of two treatment regimens for adhesive capsulitis: dynamic splinting and/or manual physical therapy.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Diagnosis of idiopathic adhesive capsulitis
• greater than 50% limitation in active flexion, internal rotation, or external rotation
• Tight GHJ capsule in at least 2 directions
• Capsular end-feel primarily limits ROM
• Age 40- 64
• Normal X-Rays

Exclusion Criteria:

• Acute adhesive capsulitis
• History of Diabetes Mellitus
• Evidence of a cuff tear
• Recent history of trauma
• Evidence of glenohumeral DJD
• History of shoulder surgery
• Calcification of tendonitis demonstrated on a current X-Ray
• Abnormal X-Ray
• Cervical Radiculopathy/brachial plexus lesions
• Less than 2+/5 muscle strength during mid-line manual muscle testing
• Muscle Atrophy
• Presence of associated systematic conditions
• History of prior therapy for current condition
• Manipulation under anesthesia
• Non compliance
• Shoulder-Hand syndrome, Complex Regional Pain Syndrome
• History of prior injections for the current problem
• Patient receiving worker's compensation
• Shoulder symptoms with cervical provocative testing
• Positive X-ray findings in the acromioclavicular or sternoclavicular joints
• Abnormal physical signs or symptoms in the A-C or S-C joint