Orthonotes
Orthonotes
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Shoulder Stiffness — Adhesive Capsulitis

Idiopathic or secondary; painful stiffness with capsular pattern (ER most limited). Stages: painful freezing → frozen → thawing; natural history 1–3 years. Nonoperative: NSAIDs, PT, intra‑articular steroid injections. Operative: MUA or arthroscopic capsular release for refractory cases. Rule out secondary causes (diabetes, thyroid, post‑surgical). 

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Idiopathic or secondary; painful stiffness with capsular pattern (ER most limited). Stages: painful freezing → frozen → thawing; natural history 1–3 years. Nonoperative: NSAIDs, PT, intra‑articular steroid injections. Operative: MUA or arthroscopic capsular release for refractory cases. Rule out secondary causes (diabetes, thyroid, post‑surgical). 

MCQs

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Question 1

What is the most common risk factor associated with adhesive capsulitis?

Question 2

In which stage of adhesive capsulitis is severe pain particularly common, especially at night?

Question 3

During physical examination of a patient with adhesive capsulitis, which movement is typically the most restricted?

Question 4

What is the typical natural history duration for adhesive capsulitis?

Question 5

What is the first-line nonoperative treatment for adhesive capsulitis?

Question 6

In the frozen stage of adhesive capsulitis, which of the following statements is true regarding pain?

Question 7

Which of the following conditions is NOT typically associated with adhesive capsulitis?

Question 8

What is the typical passive range of motion for external rotation in a patient with adhesive capsulitis?

Question 9

What is the primary mechanism underlying adhesive capsulitis?

Question 10

Which surgical intervention is commonly considered for refractory cases of adhesive capsulitis?