Hype, Promise and Reality: Orthopaedic Use of Biologics in 2020 (AANA20)-Adhesive Capsulitis_ How Long Should We Wait_ Nonoperative and Arthroscopic Treatment-Dr. Stephen C. Weber

Adhesive Capsulitis_ How Long Should We Wait_ Nonoperative and Arthroscopic Treatment-Dr. Stephen C. Weber

Video Transcription

Video Summary

Dr. Steven Weber discusses adhesive capsulitis (frozen shoulder), tracing its history from 19th-century descriptions through evolving diagnoses and treatments. He notes early beliefs attributing pain to bursitis or rotator cuff issues and highlights arthroscopy's role in better understanding pathology—primarily thickened capsule and synovitis rather than adhesions. The condition typically affects middle-aged women, often bilaterally, and is linked to diabetes and other systemic diseases. Contrary to common belief, spontaneous full recovery is rare; about half of patients have lingering symptoms years later. Non-operative treatment begins with NSAIDs, supervised home physical therapy, and intraarticular steroid injections, which can yield dramatic improvement if done early. For resistant cases, Dr. Weber prefers arthroscopic capsular release to avoid risks associated with manipulation or forced stretching, emphasizing caution to prevent complications like fractures or dislocations. He underlines the importance of early recognition, patient patience, and tailored treatment to manage this common but complex shoulder condition effectively.

Asset Caption

Instructional Course Lecture: Hype, Promise, and Reality: Orthopaedic Use of Biologics in 2020

Keywords

adhesive capsulitis

frozen shoulder

arthroscopic capsular release

non-operative treatment

diabetes association