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Manipulation for frozen shoulder: long-term results
Christopher M Farrell1, John W Sperling, Robert H Cofield
1Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN 55905, USA.
Journal of Shoulder and Elbow Surgery
|October 1, 2005
Summary
Manipulation under anesthesia offers sustained relief for frozen shoulder. This procedure significantly improves shoulder motion and function, with long-term benefits observed up to 15 years post-treatment.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedics
- Sports Medicine
- Physical Therapy
Background:
- Frozen shoulder (idiopathic adhesive capsulitis) often requires intervention when conservative treatments fail.
- Long-term outcomes of manipulation under anesthesia for frozen shoulder are not well-documented.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the long-term efficacy and functional outcomes of manipulation under anesthesia (MUA) for idiopathic frozen shoulder.
Main Methods:
- A cohort of 25 patients (26 shoulders) with idiopathic frozen shoulder, unresponsive to physical therapy, underwent MUA.
- Follow-up included clinical examination and long-term questionnaires (average 15 years) assessing range of motion, pain, and functional scores (Simple Shoulder Test, American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons).
Main Results:
- Significant improvements in mean forward elevation (104° to 168°) and external rotation (23° to 67°) were observed.
- At long-term follow-up, 18 of 19 shoulders reported minimal pain, and 18 required no further surgery.
- Mean functional scores were high: Simple Shoulder Test (9.5/12) and American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons (80/100).
Conclusions:
- Manipulation under anesthesia provides sustained improvements in shoulder motion, function, and pain relief for idiopathic frozen shoulder patients.
- The procedure demonstrates a favorable long-term safety profile with a low rate of subsequent surgical intervention.