Arthrodilation: a treatment algorithm as a conservative management option for adhesive capsulitis

the management of adhesive capsulitis (AC) remains a topic of debate among orthopedic surgeons, with a wide variation in the literature. Conservative treatment relies as the first-line option as clinical studies report positive outcomes. However, there is variability in the effectiveness of different treatment modalities.

this study aimed to analyzed functional and clinical outcomes of patients with AC who underwent the arthrodilation protocol, including three ultrasound-guided injections administered on a weekly basis: two corticosteroid injections and one injection of hyaluronic acid combined with corticosteroids. Additionally, patients received a specific rehabilitation therapy. Visual analogue scale (VAS), the university of California-Los Angeles shoulder score (UCLA) and Constant-Murley score were assessed before treatment and after 3-month follow-up period.

23 patients were included, receiving the same treatment protocol with a mean onset of symptoms of 4.9 ± 1.7 months. Among these patients, there was a clear predominance of females (65.2%). Age distribution ranged from 39 to 74 years (mean = 56) indicating that individuals in their mid-50s were more susceptible to developing this condition. Furthermore, a slight majority (52.2%) exhibited AC in their right shoulder. VAS significantly decreased (-6.09 ± 1.9 [p 0.05]). Similarly, UCLA score (10.9 ± 2.9 to 31.7 ± 2.2) and Constant-Murley score (22.3 ± 6.1 to 62.0 ± 6.2) improved significantly. Pre-to-post treatment evaluation showed improvement in both UCLA (mean = 20.8 ± 2.9 [p 0.05]) and Constant-Murley (mean = 39.7 ± 9 [p 0.05]).

arthrodilation protocol demonstrated promising results, with patients achieving good to excellent outcomes and safely resuming their regular daily activities within a short-term follow-up period. These findings provide support for arthrodilation as a viable conservative management option and contribute valuable insights to the ongoing research aimed at identifying optimal treatment approaches for adhesive capsulitis.