Frozen shoulder - A prospective randomized clinical trial

AIM: To compare the results of arthroscopic capsular release with intra-articular steroid injections in patients of frozen shoulder. METHODS: Fifty-six patients with frozen shoulder were randomised to one of two treatment groups: Group 1, complete 360 degree arthroscopic capsular release and group 2, intra-articular corticosteroid injection (40 mg methyl prednisolone acetate). Both groups were put on active and passive range of motion exercises following the intervention. The outcome parameters were visual analogue scale (VAS) score for pain, range of motion and Constant score which were measured at baseline, 4, 8, 12, 16 and 20 wk after intervention. RESULTS: value of 0.007 at 4 wk, 0.001 at 8, 12, and 16 wk and 0.003 at 20 wk. There was no statistically significant difference in extension and internal rotation between the two groups at any time. CONCLUSION: Arthroscopic capsular release provides subjective and objective improvement earlier than intra-articular steroid injection.