Correlation Between MRI Findings and Clinical Impairment In Patients With Shoulder Adhesive Capsulitis: A Prospective Study

Objectives: MRI diagnostic criteria of shoulder adhesive capsulitis (AC) are widely used, but there is little information available on the association between MRI findings and clinical impairment. The aim of our study was to determine the correlation of MRI findings with the Constant-Murlay Score (CMS), pain duration, and symptoms at the one-year follow-up in AC patients. Methods: MRI of 132 patients with a clinical diagnosis of shoulder AC were prospectively studied. A radiologist examined all patients and completed the CMS just prior to MRI. Pain duration was assessed. The signal intensity and the maximal thickness of the inferior glenohumeral (IGHL) and coracohumeral (CHL) ligaments were measured by two radiologists. Medical record analysis was performed in a sub-group of 49 patients to assess correlation approximately one year after the MRI examination. Results: There was a significant difference in mean pain duration score (3.8 ± 1.2 versus 3.2 ± 0.9 and 3.8 ± 1.2 versus 3.2 ± 0.9 respectively for readers 1 and 2) and in mean mobility scores (15.7 ± 8 points versus 19.6 ± 10.1 points and 15.8 ± 8.2 points versus 19.4 ± 10 points respectively for readers 1 and 2) in patients with a high IGHL signal compared to those with a low signal ( P < .05). IGHL was thicker in patients with clinical improvement at one-year follow-up compared to those presenting clinical stability or worsening ( P < .05). Conclusion: In shoulder AC patients, the degree of signal intensity at the IGHL was inversely related to shoulder pain duration and range of motion, and a thickened IGHL indicated a favorable outcome at one-year follow-up.