Arthro-distension with early and intensive mobilization for shoulder adhesive capsulitis: A randomized controlled trial

Abstract

Background

There are several therapeutic options for the management of shoulder adhesive capsulitis (AC). The superiority of arthro-distension over intra-articular steroid injection (ISI) for AC remains controversial.

Objectives

To evaluate the efficacy of a single arthro-distension procedure combined with early and intensive mobilization (ADM) and physiotherapy, versus ISI and physiotherapy, in people with AC lasting ≥3 months.

Methods

This was a prospective, 2 parallel-group, 2-center, observer-blind randomized controlled trial conducted in tertiary care settings. Adults with AC were randomly assigned to the treatment or control group. Efficacy was assessed using the self-administered Shoulder Pain and Disability Index (SPADI). Total, pain and disability SPADI scores 15 days, 6 weeks, and 3, 6 and 12 months after the procedure (total SPADI at 15 days: primary outcome; other outcomes were secondary) were compared between groups using analysis of covariance (ANCOVA). A post hoc analysis stratified on the initial range of passive glenohumeral abduction, which had not been pre-specified, was conducted.

Results

There were 33 participants in each group. Both groups improved over time. Mean (SD) total SPADI score at 15 days was 33.8 (19.6) in the treatment group and 32.8 (17.5) in the control group, p = 0.393. There were no significant differences for any variables in the overall sample. The post hoc analysis found ADM to be associated with a significant decrease in total SPADI score at 15 days compared with ISI (p = 0.049) in individuals with initial passive glenohumeral abduction >45°.

Conclusions

The effects of ADM on pain and function were not statistically different from those of ISI. However, ADM may be useful in individuals with initial passive glenohumeral abduction >45°.

Database registration

NCT00724113.