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Shoulder proprioception and function following thermal capsulorraphy.
Scott M Lephart1, Joseph B Myers, James P Bradley
1Neuromuscular Research Laboratory, Musculoskeletal Research Center, Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania 15203, USA. lephartsm@msx.upmc.edu
Summary
Thermal capsulorraphy did not negatively impact shoulder proprioception or function. This study found no deleterious effects on shoulder joint mechanoreceptors, suggesting improved outcomes after thermal treatment for instability.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedics
- Sports Medicine
- Biomedical Engineering
Background:
- Monopolar radiofrequency energy denatures the glenohumeral joint capsule during thermal capsulorraphy.
- Potential deleterious effects on mechanoreceptors, proprioception, and function were hypothesized.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate proprioception and function following thermal capsulorraphy for shoulder instability.
Main Methods:
- Case series study involving 20 subjects with glenohumeral instability.
- Evaluated active and passive joint position reproduction, threshold to detect passive motion, and shoulder function (SRQ).
- Bilateral testing conducted 6-24 months post-surgery.
Main Results:
- No significant differences in passive reproduction of joint positions (PRJP) or threshold to detect passive motion (TTDPM).
- Active reproduction of joint positions (ARJP) showed less error in the involved limb.
- Shoulder Rating Questionnaire (SRQ) scores indicated near-normal function (91.86/100).
Conclusions:
- Results do not support the hypothesis of proprioception and functional deficits after thermal capsulorraphy.
- Normalized proprioception may be due to ligament healing and mechanoreceptor facilitation during rehabilitation.
- No significant deleterious effects on proprioception or function were observed following thermal capsulorraphy for shoulder instability.