article

Frozen Shoulder: Diagnosis and Management

Warner, Jon J. P. MD

Dr. Warner is Director, Shoulder Service, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, and Associate Professor of Orthopaedic Surgery, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine.

Reprint requests: Dr. Warner, Shoulder Service, Center for Sports Medicine, 4601 Baum Boulevard, Pittsburgh, PA 15213.

Journal of the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons 5(3):p 130-140, May 1997.

Abstract

“Frozen shoulder” comprises a group of conditions caused by different processes. Effective treatment depends on recognition of the underlying pathologic disorder in each individual case. Idiopathic adhesive capsulitis usually responds to nonoperative therapy or closed manipulation, but shoulder stiffness due to trauma or surgery may necessitate either an arthroscopic or an open-release procedure. Both of these technically demanding techniques are effective in restoring motion in cases of frozen shoulder refractory to nonoperative treatment.