TREATMENT OF ADHESIVE CAPSULITIS WITH THE TRIPLE PROCEDURE: INTRA-ARTICULAR INJECTION WITH CORTICOSTEROIDS,...

Area of Science:

• Orthopedics
• Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation
• Sports Medicine

Background:

• Adhesive capsulitis (AC), or frozen shoulder, presents a significant challenge in shoulder function.
• Conservative treatments exist, but a combined approach has not been previously investigated.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the efficacy of a novel triple procedure for adhesive capsulitis.
• The triple procedure combines hydrodilation, corticosteroid injection, and manipulation under sedation, followed by home exercises.

Main Methods:

• A prospective cohort study included 63 patients (65 shoulders).
• Outcomes were assessed using ASES, UCLA, SANE, VAS scales, and passive range of motion (ROM).
• Evaluations occurred pre-procedure and at 30 days, 3, 6, and 12 months post-treatment.

Main Results:

• Significant improvements were observed in ASES (37.7 to 94.1), UCLA (15.9 to 33.2), and SANE (50.4 to 94.3) scores at 12 months (p < 0.001).
• Passive ROM improved, with elevation increasing from 114° to 176°, external rotation from 29° to 72°, and internal rotation from 18.6 to 9.4 points.
• No fractures or complications were reported following the manipulation.

Conclusions:

• The triple procedure offers a statistically and clinically relevant improvement in functional outcomes for adhesive capsulitis.
• This treatment approach leads to significant gains in shoulder range of motion without reported complications.
• The study provides evidence for a safe and effective multimodal treatment strategy for frozen shoulder.