An orthopaedic study of frozen shoulder
Chen, S.K.; Lin, S.Y.; Liao, J.S.
Gaoxiong Yi Xue Ke Xue Za Zhi 4(1): 1-9
1988
ISSN/ISBN: 0257-5655 PMID: 3163008 Document Number: 320628
Two hundred and eighteen cases of frozen shoulder were analyzed by physical examination, plain X-ray, arthrography and arthroscopy at Kaohsiung Medical College Hospital during a three and half year period. Cases of frozen shoulders were divided into 3 groups: Group I (pseudo-frozen shoulder) included 21 patients who received normal plain X-ray and normal arthrogram. Group II (primary frozen shoulder) included 165 cases. Those patients with restricted capsule as diagnosed by arthrography were also examined with an arthroscope. According to the findings via the arthroscope, our researchers found adhesive capsulitis to be the primary lesion of idiopathic frozen shoulder with secondary changes occuring around the shoulder. It is possible that adhesive capsulitis is the primary lesion of idiopathic frozen shoulder and rotator cuff tendinitis with soft tissue contractures around the shoulder as secondary changes. Different pictures of various stages of frozen shoulder were noted as well. Group III (secondary frozen shoulder), included 32 cases of frozen shoulder secondary to intrinsic shoulder pathology. Rotator cuff tears and calcific tendinitis of the supraspinatus were two major factors on this series. It is suggested that the present conservative management for frozen shoulder may be supplanted by more aggressive procedures, such as arthroscopic brisement.