Adhesive Capsulitis

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Abstract

Some individuals experience a condition characterized by spontaneous shoulder pain and stiffness due to synovitis, fibrosis, and loss of capsule elasticity without a clear-cut inciting cause. Most commonly, this condition is named adhesive capsulitis or frozen shoulder, terms applied only when shoulder radiographs are essentially normal and other reasons for shoulder pain and stiffness (e.g., cuff disease, fractures, dislocations, and arthritis) can be excluded. Although this condition resolves spontaneously in many patients, its course is protracted and a number of individuals may experience permanent restrictions in motion and function. This chapter discusses various aspects of adhesive capsulitis including pathogenesis, natural history, patient evaluation, and treatment.