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Updated: Aug 22, 2026
Rat Model of Adhesive Capsulitis of the Shoulder
Published on: September 28, 2018
Idiopathic adhesive capsulitis: long-term results of conservative treatment
Israel Dudkiewicz1, Ariel Oran, Moshe Salai
1Department of Orthopedic Rehabilitation, Sheba Medical Center, Tel Hashomer, Israel. dudke@netvision.net.il
Background:
Adhesive capsulitis, also termed "frozen shoulder," is controversial by definition and diagnostic criteria that are not sufficiently understood. The clinical course of this condition is considered self-limiting and is divided into three clinical phases. Several treatment methods for adhesive capsulitis have been reported in the literature, none of which has proven superior to others.
Objectives:
To evaluate the long-term follow-up of patients with idiopathic adhesive capsulitis who were treated conservatively.
Methods:
We conducted a long-term follow-up (range 5.5-16 years, mean 9.2 years) of 54 patients suffering from idiopathic adhesive capsulitis. All patients were treated with physical therapy and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs.
Results:
An increased statistically significant improvement (P < 0.00001) was found between the first and last visits to the clinic in all measured movement directions: elevation and external and internal rotation.
Conclusions:
Conservative treatment (physical therapy and NSAIDs) is a good long-term treatment regimen for idiopathic adhesive capsulitis.
