Capsular distention for adhesive capsulitis in a pediatric patient with acute flaccid myelitis: A case report

Acute Flaccid Myelitis (AFM) is a recently recognized pediatric condition characterized by flaccid paralysis that can cause lifelong deficits. Adhesive Capsulitis (AC) is a chronic condition that causes loss of passive range of motion in the shoulder due to joint contracture.

This is a case report of a 15-year-old male who suffered from shoulder pain with progressive loss of passive range of motion after AFM, diagnosed with AC based on exam and radiology. After failing conservative management, the patient was successfully treated with ultrasound guided corticosteroid injection.

AC is uncommonly reported in pediatric patients. However, secondary adhesive capsulitis is frequently associated with disorders of shoulder immobility in adults. This case contributes to the body of literature regarding pediatric frozen shoulder, highlights the successful use of ultrasound guided injections for management, and suggests a relationship between AFM and AC which may be beneficial for pediatric physiatrists in treating patients with shoulder pain or immobility related to this condition.