Abstract

OBJECTIVE:

This article reports the use of translational manipulation after failed arthroscopic capsular release for adhesive capsulitis.

CLINICAL FEATURES:

The patient was a 40-year-old woman, insulin-dependent diabetic with the insidious onset of right shoulder adhesive capsulitis. The patient underwent physical therapy 3 times a week for 6 weeks with minimal changes in her range of motion or pain. After failing physical therapy, the patient had arthroscopic capsular release and long-lever arm rotational manipulation of the right shoulder. The patient participated in physical therapy again, failing to regain her range of motion.

INTERVENTION AND OUTCOME:

Subsequently, the patient underwent interscalene block and translational manipulation by the same therapist followed by physical therapy. The patient's range-of-motion measures, strength testing, pain scale measurements, and functional scoring were recorded throughout her rehabilitation. She returned 2 years postdischarge for the same tests and measurements.

CONCLUSION:

Adhesive capsulitis in association with diabetes mellitus poses a serious treatment dilemma. Arthroscopic release may have limited benefits secondary to limited release and/or postoperative pain limiting rehabilitation. Translational manipulation under interscalene block may be considered in this difficult treatment group.